In every power, of which taste is the foundation, excellence is pretty fairly divided between the sexes.
 Jane Austen, Northanger Abbey (1817). copy citation

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Author Jane Austen
Source Northanger Abbey
Topic sex power
Date 1817
Language English
Reference
Note
Weblink http://www.gutenberg.org/files/121/121-h/121-h.htm

Context

“You do not think too highly of us in that way.” “I should no more lay it down as a general rule that women write better letters than men, than that they sing better duets, or draw better landscapes. In every power, of which taste is the foundation, excellence is pretty fairly divided between the sexes.” They were interrupted by Mrs. Allen: “My dear Catherine,” said she, “do take this pin out of my sleeve; I am afraid it has torn a hole already; I shall be quite sorry if it has, for this is a favourite gown, though it cost but nine shillings a yard.”” source