When the impossible has been eliminated, all that remains no matter how improbable is possible.

Just as an octopus may have his den in some ocean cave, and come floating out a silent image of horror to attack a swimmer, so I picture such a spirit lurking in the dark of the house which he curses by his presence, and ready to float out upon all whom he can injure.

There is no satisfaction in vengeance unless the offender has time to realize who it is that strikes him, and why retribution has come upon him.

I have wrought my simple plan If I give one hour of joy To the boy who’s half a man, Or the man who’s half a boy.

Data!data!data!" he cried impatiently. "I can't make bricks without clay.

No violence, gentlemen — no violence, I beg of you! Consider the furniture!

An absence of antecedents and of relatives is sometimes an aid rather than an impediment to social advancement . . .