Providence conceals itself in the details of human affairs, but becomes unveiled in the generalities of history.
Alphonse de LamartineEnthusiasm springs from the imagination, and self-sacrifice from the heart. Women are, therefore, more naturally heroic than men. All nations have in their annals some of these miracles of patriotism, of which woman is the instrument in the hands of God.
Alphonse de Lamartine