But what we strive to gratify, though we may call it a distant hope, is an immediate desire; the future estate for which men drudge up city alleys exists already in their imagination and love.

More helpful than all wisdom is one draught of simple human pity that will not forsake us.

I don't want the world to give me anything for my books except money enough to save me from the temptation to write only for money.

Mighty is the force of motherhood! It transforms all things by its vital heat.

It is better sometimes not to follow great reformers of abuses beyond the threshold of their homes.

Ingenious philosophers tell you, perhaps, that the great work of the steam-engine is to create leisure for mankind. Do not believe them; it only creates a vacuum for eager thought to rush in.

The beauty of a lovely woman is like music.