Master books, but do not let them master you.

The prudent person may direct a state, but it is the enthusiast who regenerates or ruins it

I have wrought great use out of evil tools.

Genius is but fine observation strengthened by fixity of purpose.

The commerce of intellect loves distant shores. The small retail dealer trades only with his neighbor; when the great merchant trades he links the four quarters of the globe.

Money is a terrible blab; she will betray the secrets of her owner, whatever he do to gag her. His virtues will creep out in her whisper; his vices she will cry aloud at the top of her tongue.

Midnight, and love, and youth, and Italy!