Metafictional remark of the day

Nobody spoke to suggest anything further. The matter seemed settled, or, at least, postponed for future discussion. The Godfreys were not much in the habit of making speeches to one another. In this respect I cannot think they were singular. Not many English families are, unless in fiction, and more especially in religious fiction, where brothers and sisters not only make long speeches, but occasionally preach extempore sermons to one another. But I never met with such a case in real life, and I cannot altogether say I regret it.

--Christiana Jane Douglas, Father Godfrey (I.163-64)