As for the Chinese Exclusion Act, put out the fire on our trousers before worrying about the one down the street.”
-- Valora (1 )

Importance: Valora has just learned there is a rule in place that means she is not allowed aboard the Titanic and will not be allowed to disembark in New York. Her expression is one of many sayings that have a deeper meaning. In this case, she is saying she needs to worry about the problem immediately in front of her – how to get aboard the Titanic – and that she will worry about how to get into America later.

Everything belongs somewhere. Except me.”
-- Valora (4 )

Importance: Valora is feeling adrift as she boards the Titanic. Her father has only recently died, and the woman who employed her as a companion has also died. Being separated from Jamie has been difficult, but Valora is also feeling she does not have a purpose. Trying out...