I protest against any absolute conclusion.

Our virtues are dearer to us the more we have had to suffer for them. It is the same with our children. All profound affection entertains a sacrifice. Our thoughts are often worse than we are, just as they are often better.

How lovely the little river is, with its dark changing wavelets! It seems to me like a living companion while I wander along the bank, and listen to its low, placid voice.

there are two ways of speaking an audience will always like: one is, to tell them what they don't understand; and the other is, to tell them what they're used to.

Oh, child, men's men: gentle or simple, they're much of a muchness.

It is always chilling, in friendly intercourse, to say you have no opinion to give.

The greatest benefit we owe to the artist, whether painter, poet, or novelist, is the extension of our sympathies.