We are all of us more or less active physiognomists.

As far back as I can remember I have unconsciously referred to the experiences of a previous state of existence.

But why should not the New Englander try new adventures - not lay so much stress on his grain, his potato and grass crop, and his orchards - and raise other crops than these? Why concern ourselves so much about our beans for seed, and not be concerned at all about a new generation of men.

I am not afraid that I shall exaggerate the value and significance of life, but that I shall not be up to the occasion which it is.

In war, in some sense, lies the very genius of law. It is law creative and active; it is the first principle of the law. What is human warfare but just this, - an effort to make the laws of God and nature take sides with one party. Men make an arbitrary code, and, because it is not right, they try to make it prevail by might. The moral law does not want any champion. Its asserters do not go to war. It was never infringed with impunity. It is inconsistent to decry war and maintain law, for if there were no need of war there would be no need of law.

All expression of truth does at length take this deep ethical form.

We are born as innocents. We are polluted by advice.