There will never be a really free and enlightened state until the state comes to recognize the individual as a higher and independent power, from which all its own power and authority are derived.

The squeaking of the pump sounds as necessary as the music of the spheres.

Sobriety, severity, and self-respect are the foundations of all true sociality.

It gets laughed at because it is a small town, I know, but nevertheless it is a place where great men may be born any day, for fair winds and foul blow right on over it without distinction.

The opportunities of living are diminished in proportion as what are called the "means" are increased.

Do we call this the land of the free? What is it to be free from King George the Fourth and continue the slaves of prejudice? What is it to be born free and equal, and not to live? What is the value of any political freedom, but as a means to moral freedom?

As for style of writing, if one has anything to say, it drops from him simply and directly, as a stone falls to the ground.