The study of geometry is a petty and idle exercise of the mind, if it is applied to no larger system than the starry one. Mathematics should be mixed not only with physics but with ethics; that is mixed mathematics.

To speak or do anything that shall concern mankind, one must speak and act as if well, or from that grain of health which he has left.

We are constantly invited to be who we are.

Don't spend your time in drilling soldiers, who may turn out hirelings after all, but give to undrilled peasantry a country to fight for.

What have I to do with plows? I cut another furrow than you see.

What would we not give for some great poem to read now, which would be in harmony with the scenery,--for if men read aright, methinks they would never read anything but poems. No history nor philosophy can supply their place.

The man I meet with is not often so instructive as the silence he breaks.