It was, perhaps, in some measure a matter of temperament with her; but it was also a matter of education.

Yet, whatever that education had been, whatever knowledge she had acquired, she had remained very womanly and very loving.

There was nothing stern or masculine about her.
"Ah, my friend," she said one day to Pierre, "if you only knew how easy it is for me to remain happy so long as I see those I love free from any excessive suffering.

For my own part I can always adapt myself to life.

I work and content myself no matter what may happen.