Experience converts us to ourselves when books fail us.
Of gifts, there seems none more becoming to offer a friend than a beautiful book.
Nature is the armory of genius. Cities serve it poorly, books and colleges at second hand; the eye craves the spectacle of the horizon; of mountain, ocean, river and plain, the clouds and stars; actual contact with the elements, sympathy with the seasons as they rise and roll.
One must espouse some pursuit, taking it kindly at heart and with enthusiasm.
None can teach admirably if not loving his task.
Books are the most mannerly of companions, accessible at all times, in all moods, frankly declaring the author's mind, without offense.