Marvelous is the power which can be exercised, almost unconsciously, over a company, or an individual, or even upon a crowd by one person gifted with good temper, good digestion, good intellects, and good looks.

What man thinks of changing himself so as to suit his wife?

That I can read and be happy while I am reading, is a great blessing.

There is no way of writing well and also of writing easily.

Three hours a day will produce as much as a man ought to write.

Never think that you're not good enough yourself. A man should never think that. People will take you very much at your own reckoning.

I have no ambition to surprise my reader. Castles with unknown passages are not compatible with my homely muse.