It is a common sentence that Knowledge is power; but who hath duly considered or set forth the power of Ignorance? Knowledge slowly builds up what Ignorance in an hour pulls down. Knowledge, through patient and frugal centuries, enlarges discovery and makes record of it; Ignorance, wanting its day's dinner, lights a fire with the record, and gives a flavour to its one roast with the burnt souls of many generations.

Destiny stands by sarcastic with our dramatis personae folded in her hand.

I don't feel sure about doing good in any way now; everything seems like going on a mission to a people whose language I don't know.

People who write finely must not expect to be left in repose; they will be molested with thanks, at least.

We long for an affection altogether ignorant of our faults. Heaven has accorded this to us in the uncritical canine attachment.

... it is seldom a medical man has true religious views--there is too much pride of intellect.

... as usual I am suffering much from doubt as to the worth of what I am doing and fear lest I may not be able to complete it so as to make it a contribution to literature and not a mere addition to the heap of books.