In the moment of our creation we receive the stamp of our individuality; and much of life is spent in rubbing off or defacing the impression.

The effects of human wickedness are written on the page of history in characters of blood: but the impression soon fades away; so more blood must be shed to renew it.

They who disbelieve in virtue because man has never been found perfect, might as reasonably deny the sun because it is not always noon.

Philosophy cannot raise the commonalty up to her level: so, if she is to become popular, she must sink to theirs.

We like slipping, but not falling; our real anxiety is to be tempted enough.

I was surprised just now at seeing a cobweb around a knocker; for it was not on the door of heaven.

When will talkers refrain from evil speaking? When listeners refrain from evil hearing. At present there are many so credulous of evil, they will receive suspicions and impressions against persons whom they don't know, from a person whom they do know--an authority good for nothing.