We are less convinced by what we hear than by what we see.

The trials of living and the pangs of disease make even the short span of life too long.

Chances rule men and not men chances.

Adversity has the effect of drawing out strength and qualities of a man that would have laid dormant in its absence.

Great deeds are usually wrought at great risks.

Some give up their designs when they have almost reached the goal; while others, on the contrary, obtain a victory by exerting, at the last moment, more vigorous efforts than ever before.

One man envies the success in life of another, and hates him in secret; nor is he willing to give him good advice when he is consulted, except it be by some wonderful effort of good feeling, and there are, alas, few such men in the world. A real friend, on the other hand, exults in his friend?s happiness, rejoices in all his joys, and is ready to afford him the best advice.