The Bible is like a telescope. If a man looks through his telescope, then he sees worlds beyond; but, if he looks at his telescope, then he does not see anything but that.

Some people are proud of their humility.

Refinement is the lifting of one's self upwards from the merely sensual; the effort of the soul to etherealize the common wants and uses of life.

A book is good company. It is full of conversation without loquacity. It comes to your longing with full instruction, but pursues you never.

Sorrows are gardeners: they plant flowers along waste places, and teach vines to cover barren heaps.

Mirthfulness is in the mind and you cannot get it out. It is just as good in its place as conscience or veneration.

The worst prison is not of stone. It is of a throbbing heart, outraged by an infamous life.