In this world the inclination to do things is of more importance than the mere power.

Earth has scarcely an acre that does not remind us of actions that have long preceded our own, and its clustering tombstones loom up like reefs of the eternal shore, to show us where so many human barks have struck and gone down.

Death is a great revealer of what is in a man, and in its solemn shadow appear the naked lineaments of the soul.

The universe is a vast system of exchange. Every artery of it is in motion, throbbing with reciprocity, from the planet to the rotting leaf.

Profaneness is a brutal vice. He who indulges in it is no gentleman.

Temptation cannot exist without the concurrence of inclination and opportunity.

Influence is exerted by every human being from the hour of birth to that of death.