But indefinite visions of ambition are weak against the ease of doing what is habitual or beguilingly agreeable; and we all know the difficulty of carrying out a resolve when we secretly long that it may turn out to be unnecessary. In such states of mind the most incredulous person has a private leaning towards miracle: impossible to conceive how our wish could be fulfilled, still - very wonderful things have happened!

Each thought is a nail that is driven In structures that cannot decay; And the mansion at last will be given To us as we build it each day.

There is nothing that will kill a man so soon as having nobody to find fault with but himself.

... one always believes one's own town to be more stupid than any other.

The devil tempts us not--'tis we tempt him, Reckoning his skill with opportunity.

I like not only to be loved, but also to be told that I am loved. I am not sure that you are of the same mind. But the realm of silence is large enough beyond the grave. This is the world of light and speech, and I shall take leave to tell you that you are very dear.

Little children are still the symbol of the eternal marriage between love and duty.