A house built on sand is, in fair weather, just as good as if builded on a rock. A cobweb is as good as the mightiest chain cable when there is no strain on it. It is trial that proves one thing weak and another strong.
Henry Ward BeecherSelf-government by the whole people is the teleologic idea. The republican form of government is the noblest and the best, as it is the latest.
Henry Ward BeecherThe humblest individual exerts some influence, either for good or evil, upon others.
Henry Ward BeecherWhen our cup runs over, we let others drink the drops that fall, but not a drop from within the rim, and call it charity; when the crumbs are swept from our table, we think it generous to let the dogs eat them; as if that were charity which permits others to have what we cannot keep.
Henry Ward Beecher