I at least have so much to do in unraveling certain human lots, and seeing how they were woven and interwoven, that all the light I can command must be concentrated on this particular web, and not dispersed over that tempting range of relevancies called the universe.

It is the way with half the truth amidst which we live, that it only haunts us and makes dull pulsations that are never born into sound.

You have such strong words at command, that they make the smallest argument seem formidable.

"Heaven help us," said the old religion; the new one, from its very lack of that faith, will teach us all the more to help one another.

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.

That's what a man wants in a wife, mostly; he wants to make sure one fool tells him he's wise.

It is good to be helpful and kindly, but don't give yourself to be melted into candle grease for the benefit of the tallow trade.