He is the best man who, when making his plans, fears and reflects on everything that can happen to him, but in the moment of action is bold.

A general curiosity about the unknown sparked by the multicultural milieu in which I spent my formative years. There was a lot of unknown back then, too. I dare say it was easier to be an explorer then.

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.

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

The man of affluence is not in fact more happy than the possessor of a bare competency, unless, in addition to his wealth, the end of his life be fortunate. We often see misery dwelling in the midst of splendour, whilst real happiness is found in humbler stations.

There is nothing more foolish, nothing more given to outrage than a useless mob.

The most hateful grief of all human griefs is to have knowledge of a truth, but no power over the event.