But I think it is hardly an argument against a man's general strength of character, that he should be apt to be mastered by love. A fine constitution doesn't insure one against small-pox or any other of those inevitable diseases. A man may be very firm in other matters, and yet be under a sort of witchery from a woman.

In all private quarrels the duller nature is triumphant by reason of dullness.

But what we call our despair is often only the painful eagerness of unfed hope.

It is always good to know, if only in passing, charming human beings. It refreshes one like flowers and woods and clear brooks.

We are overhasty to speak as if God did not manifest himself by our silent feeling, and make his love felt through ours.

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

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.