World's End by Richard Jefferies

I own to one firm faith in this day of scepticism and cynicism. It may be a despicable weakness -- that cannot be helped -- but nothing will ever overthrow it. My faith is firm in the good which is possible in woman.

There is much vice, much evil, much folly; but, after all, these faults are chiefly caused by weakness, therefore they are more or less excusable. It is difficult for women to do good -- so many and so complex are the restraints which surround them as in a net -- yet they do it. Were I in sorrow, in trouble, or in fear, to them I should go, as hundreds -- ay, countless numbers -- have previously gone, certain of assistance if assistance were possible, and of compassion and sympathy, even if my crimes were too evil to speak of.