How we cite our quotes: Volume.Part.Chapter.Paragraph
Quote #7
The sudden encounter of the new thoughts and new habits eagerly gained in the one case, with the old thoughts and old habits passively preserved in the other, seems, at first, to part the sympathies of the most loving relatives and the fondest friends, and to set a sudden strangeness, unexpected by both and uncontrollable by both, between them on either side. (2.1.2.3)
Marian's reflections on marriage here are really profound. Her wistful tone gives us some insight into her character, as she recognizes how things have changed for her and Laura. The dual structures of her sentences, which contrast before and after the change, also help to emphasize her point.
Quote #8
It is very hard for a woman to confess that the man to whom she has given her whole life, is the man of all others who cares least for the gift. If you were married yourself, Marian—and especially if you were happily married—you would feel for me as no single woman can feel, however kind and true she may be. (2.1.5.15)
Laura doesn't speak all that much in the novel, but when she does she can really go to town. Laura's pain really shines through here, and this is one of the few instances in the novel where Laura adopts a sort of wiser, superior attitude toward Marian.
Quote #9
"Take care how you treat your wife, and how you threaten me," I broke out, in the heat of my anger. "There are laws in England to protect women from cruelty and outrage." (2.1.7.39)
Marian stands up to Percival here, which is very bold of her. But her words are ultimately hollow; Percival and Fosco have all the power, and Marian can do little to stop Percival from actually hurting her or Laura. It's a scary situation.