Every ambitious would-be empire, clarions it abroad that she is conquering the world to bring it peace, security and freedom, and it is sacrificing her sons only for the most noble and humanitarian purposes. That is a lie; and it is an ancient lie, yet generations still rise and believe it.

A stranger may easily detect what is strange to the oldest inhabitant, for the strange is his province.

For eighteen hundred years, though perchance I have no right to say it, the New Testament has been written; yet where is the legislator who has wisdom and practical talent enough to avail himself of the light which it sheds on the science of legislation?

The future is too soon the past. So make perseverance your excellence and go confidently in the direction of your dreams.

Trees indeed have hearts.

It is the greatest of all advantages to enjoy no advantage at all.

If I ever see more clearly at one time than at another, the medium through which I see is clearer.