The sun rarely shines in history, what with the dust and confusion; and when we meet with any cheering fact which implies the presence of this luminary, we excerpt and modernize it.

If one advances confidently in the direction of his dreams, and endeavors to live the life which he has imagined, he will meet with a success unexpected in common hours.

It is a relief to read some true book, wherein all are equally dead,--equally alive. I think the best parts of Shakespeare would only be enhanced by the most thrilling and affecting events. I have found it so. And so much the more, as they are not intended for consolation.

Fire is the most tolerable third party

There never was and is not likely soon to be a nation of philosophers, nor am I certain it is desirable that there should be.

We begin to praise when we begin to see a thing needs our assistance.

Begin where you are and such as you are, without aiming mainly to become of more worth, and with kindness aforethought, go about doing good.