Common sense is only a modification of talent. Genius is an exaltation of it. The difference is, therefore, in degree, not nature.

Self-confidence is not hope; it is the self-judgment of your own internal forces in their relation to the world without, which results from the failure of many hopes and the non-realization of many fears.

It is a very high mind to which gratitude is not a painful sensation. If you wish to please, you will find it wiser to receive, solicit even, favors, than accord them; for the vanity of the obligor is always flattered, that of the obligee rarely.

A prudent consideration for Number One.

Genius is but fine observation strengthened by fixity of purpose.

Fate whirls on the bark, and the rough gale sweeps from the rising tide the lazy calm of thought.

Thought is valuable in proportion as it is generative.