I write as the birds sing, because I must, and usually from the same source of inspiration.

In the economy of nature nothing is ever lost. I cannot belive that the soul of man shall prove the one exception

Be sure that you are right; and then go ahead.

What you are lies with you. If you are lazy, and accept your lot, you may live in it. If you are willing to work, you can write your name anywhere you choose, among the only ones who live beyond the grave in this world, the people who write books that help, make exquisite music, carve statues, paint pictures, and work for others. Never mind the calico dress, and the coarse shoes. Work at you books, and before long you will hear yesterday's tormentors boasting that they were once classmates of yours.

It really seems as if failure and hardship make more of a human being of folks than success.

no one in the whole world knows all a man's bignesses and all his littlenesses as his wife does.

Now what is a guest? A thing of a day! A person who disturbs your routine and interferes with important concerns. Why should any one be grateful for company? Why should time and money be lavished on visitors? They come. You overwork yourself. They go. You are glad of it. You return the visit, because it's the only way to have back at them.