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?

We need the tonic of wildness.

The nonchalance and dolce-far-niente air of nature and society hint at infinite periods in the progress of mankind.

All that man has to say or do that can possibly concern mankind is in some shape or other to tell the story of his love-to sing, and, if he is fortunate and keeps alive, he will be forever in love.

We cannot but pity the boy who has never fired a gun; he is no more humane, while his education has been sadly neglected.

I had three chairs in my house; one for solitude, two for friendship, three for society.

I have seen more men than usual, lately; and, well as I was acquainted with one, I am surprised to find what vulgar fellows they are.