But I had not the strength nor the inclination to bandy words with a drunkard. What have you done when you have bested a fool?

If you want anything done right you will have to see to it yourself every time.

MR.GOUDY: I believe you testified that you backed away from Aaron Wharton. MR.COGBURN: That is right. MR.GOUDY: You were backing away? MR.COGBURN: Yes sir. He had that ax raised. MR.GOUDY: Which direction were you going? MR.COGBURN: I always go backwards when I am backing up.

Mexican homes as a rule are closed off to the world by high blank walls of yellowish masonry, topped with broken glass to discourage escaladores, or climbing burglars. The gardens and fountains and other delights are hidden, as in an Arab city.

I would not put a thief in my mouth to steal my brains.

As he drank, little brown drops of coffee clung to his mustache like dew. Men will live like billy goats if they are let alone.

You do not think much of me, do you, Cogburn?" "I don't think about you at all when your mouth is closed.