Unlike the Concord, the Merrimack is not a dead but a living stream, though it has less life within its waters and on its banks. It has a swift current, and, in this part of its course, a clayey bottom, almost no weeds, and comparatively few fishes.

Invariably our best nights were those when it rained.

It is best to avoid the beginnings of evil.

The perception of beauty is a moral test.

He is the rich man, and enjoys the fruit of his riches, who summer and winter forever can find delight in his own thoughts.

As in many countries precious metals belong to the crown, so here more precious natural objects of rare beauty should belong to the public.

If I am not I, who will be?