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?

Lookin' back is a bad habit.

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.

Nothing is too long or too short either if you have a true and interesting tale and what I call a "graphic" writing style combined with educational aims.

Listen, here's what I'd like to do: I'd like to live in a trailer and play records all night.

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

One time you smash a bug with no mercy. Another time you find one helpless on his back with his legs flailing the air, and you flip him over and let him go on his way. The struggle that touches the heart.