Though it is folly to suppose that happiness is a matter of volition, and that we can make ourselves content and cheerful whenever we choose - a theory that many poor hypochondriacs are taunted with till they are nigh driven mad - yet, on the other hand, no sane mind is ever left without the power of self-discipline and self-control in a measure, which measure increases in proportion as it is exercised.

Silence sweeter is than speech.

What small account The All-living seems to take of this thin flame Which we call life. He sends a moment's blast Out of war's nostrils, and a myriad Of these our puny tapers are blown out Forever.

When the ship is going down we trouble ourselves little enough about the style of the cabin furniture.

our right or wrong use of money is the utmost test of character, as well as the root of happiness or misery, throughout our whole lives.

absence ... smothers into decay a rootless fancy but often nourishes the least seed of a true affection into full-flowering love.

Better no marriage, than a marriage short of the best.