There is no illusion so permanent as that which enables us to look backward with complacency; there is no mental process so deceptive as the comparing of recollections with realities.

No man pursues what he has at hand. No man recognizes the need of pursuit until that which he desires has escaped him.

There is a secret and wholesome conviction in the heart of every man or woman who has written a book that it should be no easy matter for an intelligent reader to lay down that book unfinished. There is a pardonable impression among reviewers that half an hour in its company is sufficient.

Men who believe that, through some exceptional grace or good fortune, they have found God, feel little need of culture.

There is always a secret irritation about a laugh in which we cannot join

Need drives men to envy as fullness drives them to selfishness.

Humor brings insight and tolerance.