We find it difficult to choose our direction because it does not yet exist distinctly in our idea.

The brave man braves nothing, nor knows he of his bravery.

I believe that it is in my power to elevate myself this very hour above the common level of my life.

I sat at a table where were rich food and wine in abundance, and obsequious attendance, but sincerity and truth were not; and I went away hungry from the inhospitable board.

It is not enough that our life is an easy one. We must live on the stretch, retiring to our rest like soldiers on the eve of a battle, looking forward to the strenuous sortie of the morrow.

It is always singular, but encouraging, to meet with common sense in very old books, as the Heetopades of Veeshnoo Sarma; a playful wisdom which has eyes behind as well as before, and oversees itself. It asserts their health and independence of the experience of later times. This pledge of sanity cannot be spared in a book, that it sometimes pleasantly reflect upon itself.

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