If you do not write for publication, there is little point in writing at all.

Remember always that the least plain sister is the family beauty.

When people shake their heads because we are living in a restless age, ask them how they would like to life in a stationary one, and do without change

Democracy substitutes election by the incompetent many for appointment by the corrupt few.

The capacity of any conqueror is more likely than not to be an illusion produced by the incapacity of his adversary.

You may well ask me why...I took the time to write [books]. I can only reply that I do not know. There was no why about it. I had to: that was all.

Without danger I cannot be great. That is how I pay for Abel's blood. Danger and fear follow my steps everywhere. Without them courage would have no sense. And it is courage, courage, courage that raises the blood of life to crimson splendor.