LEAD, n. A heavy blue-gray metal much used ... as a counterpoise to an argument of such weight that it turns the scale of debate the wrong way. An interesting fact in the chemistry of international controversy is that at the point of contact of two patriotisms lead is precipitated in great quantities.
Ambrose BierceEulogy. Praise of a person who has either the advantages of wealth and power, or the consideration to be dead.
Ambrose BierceA large stone presented by the archangel Gabriel to the patriarch Abraham, and preserved at Mecca. The patriarch had perhaps asked the archangel for bread.
Ambrose BierceConvent - a place of retirement for women who wish for leisure to meditate upon the sin of idleness.
Ambrose Bierce