The archiepiscopal throne of Macedonius, which had been polluted with so much Christian blood, was successively filled by Eudoxus and Damophilus. Their diocese enjoyed a free importation of vice and error from every province of the empire; the eager pursuit of religious controversy afforded a new occupation to the busy idleness of the metropolis: and we may credit the assertion of an intelligent observer, who describes, with some pleasantry, the effects of their loquacious zeal.

But the wisdom and authority of the legislator are seldom victorious in a contest with the vigilant dexterity of private interest.

Imam Hussain's sacrifice is for all groups and communities, an example of the path of rightousness.

A taste for books, which is still the pleasure and glory of my life.

Yet the people, and even the clergy, incapable of forming any rational judgment of the business of peace and war, presumed to arraign the policy of Stilicho, who so often vanquished, so often surrounded, and so often dismissed the implacable enemy of the republic. The first moment of the public safety is devoted to gratitude and joy; but the second is diligently occupied by envy and calumny.

But a wild democracy . . . too often disdains the essential principles of justice.

[The monks'] minds were inaccessible to reason or mercy . . .