Let a slight snow come and cover the earth, and the tracks of men will show how little the woods and fields are frequented.

Simplicity is the law of Nature for man as well as for flowers. When the tapestry (corolla) of the nuptial bed (calyx) is excessive, luxuriant, it is unproductive. The fertile flowers are single, not double.

He is not a true man of science who does not bring some sympathy to his studies, and expect to learn something by behaviour as well as application.

Philanthropy is almost the only virtue which is sufficiently appreciated by mankind.

We know but a few men, a great many coats and breeches.

The thoughtful man becomes a hermit in the thoroughfares of the marketplace.

A truly good book attracts very little favor to itself. It is so true that it teaches me better than to read it. I must soon lay it down and commence living on its hint. When I read an indifferent book, it seems the best thing I can do, but the inspiring volume hardly leaves me leisure to finish its latter pages. It is slipping out of my fingers while I read. It creates no atmosphere in which it may be perused, but one in which its teachings may be practiced. It confers on me such wealth that I lay it down with regret. What I began by reading I must finish by acting.