Persuasion, kind, unassuming persuasion, should be adopted to influence the conduct of men. The opposite course would be a reversal of human nature, which is God's decree and can never be reversed.

I am an optimist because I don't see the point in being anything else.

A woman is the only thing I am afraid of that I know will not hurt me.

It is a good face. I am glad this war is over at last.

In regards to this great Book [the Bible], I have but to say it is the best gift God has given to man. All the good the Savior gave to the world was communicated through this Book. But for it we could not know right from wrong. All things most desirable for man's welfare, here and hereafter, are found portrayed in it.

Our eldest boy, Bob, has been away from us nearly a year at school, and will enter Harvard University this month. He promises verywell, considering we never controlled him much.

I understand that it is a maxim of law, that a poor plea may be a good plea to a bad declaration.