Civilization degrades many in order to exalt the few.
Heaven trims our lamps while we sleep.
Of gifts, there seems none more becoming to offer a friend than a beautiful book.
Our ideals are our better selves.
Time is one's best friend, teaching best of all the wisdom of silence.
The wisest and best are repulsive, if they are characterized by repulsive manners. Politeness is an easy virtue, costs little, and has great purchasing power.