One half of the pleasure experienced at a theatre arises from the spectator's sympathy with the rest of the audience, and, especially from his belief in their sympathy with him.

There are some secrets which do not permit themselves to be told.

In efforts to soar above our nature, we invariably fall below it.

My next thought concerned the choice of an impression, or effect, to be conveyed: and here I may as well observe that, throughout the construction, I kept steadily in view the design.

The idea of God, infinity, or spirit stands for the possible attempt at an impossible conception.

In reading some books we occupy ourselves chiefly with the thoughts of the author; in perusing others, exclusively with our own.

Convinced myself, I seek not to convince.