I propose to put forward an apology for mathematics; and I may be told that it needs none, since there are now few studies more generally recognized, for good reasons or bad, as profitable and praiseworthy.
A mathematician, like a painter or a poet, is a maker of patterns.
Mathematics may, like poetry or music, "promote and sustain a lofty habit of mind."
Exposition, criticism, appreciation, is work for second-rate minds.
Chess problems are the hymn-tunes of mathematics.
Cricket is the only game where you are playing against eleven of the other side and ten of your own.