A prig is a fellow who is always making you a present of his opinions.

A man falling into dark waters seeks a momentary footing even on sliding stones.

'Character," says Novalis, in one of his questionable aphorisms - character is destiny'.

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.

Better a wrong will than a wavering; better a steadfast enemy than an uncertain friend; better a false belief than no belief at all.

I am open to conviction on all points except dinner and debts. I hold that the one must be eaten and the other paid.

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