But if Maggie had been that young lady, you would probably have known nothing about her: her life would have had so few vicissitudes that it could hardly have been written; for the happiest women, like the happiest nations, have no history.

I would not creep along the coast but steer Out in mid-sea, by guidance of the stars.

If I got places, sir, it was because I made myself fit for 'em. If you want to slip into a round hole, you must first make a ball of yourself; that's where it is.

I'm proof against that word failure. I've seen behind it. The only failure a man ought to fear is failure of cleaving to the purpose he sees to be best.

We are all apt to believe what the world believes about us.

The words of genius have a wider meaning than the thought that prompted them.

We mortals, men and women, devour many a disappointment between breakfast and dinnertime.