Come back tomorrow morning, clever pussycat.
-- Reuben Burstein (Part 1: Chp 1 paragraph 13)

Importance: This quote is significant because it reveals the character of the girl Reuben Burstein is referring to: Lillian Leyb. He tells her she is clever because rather than wait her turn to be quietly interviewed, Lillian pushes her way to the front and ensures that she is noticed. Reuben and Meyer both notice her.

You ought to get some gloves.
-- Meyer Burstein (Part 1: Chp 2 paragraph 26)

Importance: This quote is relevant because despite Meyer’s desire to be with a ‘real’ woman who earns her paycheck weekly with her hands, he is still embarrassed to be seen in public with her when her hands so obviously tell the world that she is a seamstress and little more.

It would be for propriety for you and me, I should get my wrapper.
-- Lillian (Part 1: Chp 3 paragraph 17)

Importance: Lillian reveals her intention to keep some decorum between them when he arrives late one night. She is Meyer's 'kept'...