If the lives of men were relieved of all need, hardship and adversity; if everything they took in hand were successful, they would be so swollen with arrogance that, though they might not burst, they would present the spectacle of unbridled folly-nay, they would go mad. And I may say, further, that a certain amount of care or pain or trouble is necessary for every man at all times. A ship without ballast is unstable and will not go straight.

That which knows all things and is known by none is the subject.

To find out your real opinion of someone, judge the impression you have when you first see a letter from them.

For our improvement we need a mirror.

Reading is merely a surrogate for thinking for yourself; it means letting someone else direct your thoughts.

Truth is most beautiful undraped.

If we suspect that a man is lying, we should pretend to believe him; for then he becomes bold and assured, lies more vigorously, and is unmasked.