I have only read the first chapter of this book.  So far these the parts that have made an impression on me.

"The cottage stood amongst a group of others on a shelf of the hill, and was detached, having a small garden behind and in front, and a little yard, where a water-butt and tool-shed stood.  It was a well-to-do-looking place; there was no ostentation, but the kitchen was bright and comfortable and full of the ornaments with which a cottager in the North loves to deck his home.  Brass candlesticks, a copper kettle, a shepherdess and shepherd in china, stood upon the mantelshelf, also a brass snuffer-stand, with two pairs of snuffers thereon.  The mantelshelf was high, the grate and oven convenient and well built.  A chest of drawers stood opposite the fire-place; a dresser, suitable both for ironing and cooking, was placed under the open window; an eight-day clock stood by the door leading into the back kitchen, and there a table and chairs, besides a high backed settle, and pretty oak cupboards built across either corner of the room on the same side as the fire-place.  We must not forget to mention the coloured prints hanging up on the wall, nor the pile of books upon the drawers, nor the flowers, in pots, which stood upon the window-sill.  It was altogether a bright and comfortable place, and was scrupulously clean."

I especially like the last sentence, wish I could say this about my home.

A few of the descriptive sections about Margaret...

"… and she was by no means pretty.  But there was a great deal that was attractive about her; her eye were kind and candid, her mouth capable and firm, and she had soft dark hair that gave an indescribable grace to her face.  ….When Margaret spoke and moved she was even more attractive than when she stood silent.  For her actions, though quiet, were firm and deft and satisfying to the eye; her voice was full yet low; her smile genial and charming.  She had the attributes of a helpful, wholesome nature; her presence was consoling, her look cheering; one felt under a soothing influence when she was by."

I just love the descriptions in old books.

Also gives me something to aspire to as I try to make my house a home.

Jen in Oz