No, she laughed." How on earth could that be done? If you try to laugh and say ‘No’ at the same time, it sounds like neighing – yet people are perpetually doing it in novels. If they did it in real life they would be locked up.

Hilaire Belloc
About This Quote

This quote comes from the British novelist, Agatha Christie. It is said to be an example of the author's unique style. When characters in her novels say "No," they typically do so with a chuckle or a long sigh. The reason that this quote has become so popular is that it makes it seem like the person saying "No" is not really trying to say no.

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More Quotes By Hilaire Belloc
  1. For I know that we laughers have a gross cousinship with the most high, and it is this contrast and perpetual quarrel which feeds a spring of merriment in the soul of a sane man.
  2. From quiet homes and first beginning, Out to the undiscovered ends, There's nothing worth the wear of winning, But laughter and the love of friends.
  3. He [the poet] brings out the inner part of things and presents them to men in such a way that they cannot refuse but must accept it. But how the mere choice and rhythm of words should produce so magical an effect no one has...
  4. When I am dead, I hope it may be said, 'His sins were scarlet, but his books were read.
  5. Write as the wind blows and command all words like an army!
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