Childhood has no forebodings; but then, it is soothed by no memories of outlived sorrow.

It is time the clergy are told that thinking men, after a close examination of that doctrine, pronounce it to be subversive of true moral development and, therefore, positively noxious.

People glorify all sorts of bravery except the bravery they might show on behalf of their nearest neighbors.

The memory has as many moods as the temper, and shifts its scenery like a diorama.

For character too is a process and an unfolding. . . among our valued friends is there not someone or other who is a little too self confident and disdainful. . . .

It is very difficult to be learned; it seems as if people were worn out on the way to great thoughts, and can never enjoy them because they are too tired.

It is possible to have a strong self-love without any self-satisfaction, rather with a self-discontent which is the more intense because one's own little core of egoistic sensibility is a supreme care.