Two kinds of people are good at foreseeing danger: those who have learned at their own expense, and the clever people who learn a great deal at the expense of others.

You have to appear wiser and more prudent than is required by the people you are dealing with if you want to give a high opinion of yourself.

One who was abhorred by all in prosperity is adored by all in adversity.

Excellence resides in quality, not in quantity. The best is always few and rare; much lowers value.

Dreams will get you nowhere, a good kick in the pants will take you a long way.

Keep expectation alive. Keep stirring it up. Let much promise more, and great deeds herald greater.

Fortunate people often have very favorable beginnings and very tragic endings. What matters isn't being applauded when you arrive - for that is common - but being missed when you leave.