He had no failings which were not owing to a noble cause; to an ardent, generous, perhaps an immoderate passion for fame; a passion which is the instinct of all great souls.

He that struggles with us strengthens our nerves, and sharpens our skill. Our antagonist is our helper.

There is nothing that God has judged good for us that He has not given us the means to accomplish, both in the natural and the moral world.

Society is indeed a contract. ... It is a partnership in all science; a partnership in all art; a partnership in every virtue, and in all perfection.

I venture to say no war can be long carried on against the will of the people.

Beauty is the promise of happiness.

The conduct of a losing party never appears right: at least it never can possess the only infallible criterion of wisdom to vulgar judgements-success.