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.

Why should people ever take credit for charity when they must know that they cannot gain as much pleasure out of their guineas in any other fashion?

To underestimate oneself is as much an exaggeration of one's powers than the other.

I have frequently gained my first real insight into the character of parents by studying their children.

Clouds of insects danced and buzzed in the golden autumn light, and the air was full of the piping of the song-birds. Long, glinting dragonflies shot across the path, or hung tremulous with gauzy wings and gleaming bodies.

The best way of successfully acting a part is to be it.

When a doctor does go wrong he is the first of criminals. He has nerve and he has knowledge.