The fortunate man is the one who cannot take more than a couple of drinks without becoming intoxicated. The unfortunate wight is the one who can take many glasses without betraying a sign; who must take numerous glasses in order to get the ‘kick’.

I would rather be ashes than dust! I would rather that my spark should burn out in a brilliant blaze than it should be stifled by dry-rot. I would rather be a superb meteor, every atom of me in magnificent glow, than a sleepy and permanent planet. The function of man is to live, not to exist. I shall not waste my days trying to prolong them. I shall use my time.

There's only one way to make a beginning, and that is to begin; and begin with hard work, and patience, prepared for all the disappoint­ment s.

So that was the way. No fair play. Once down, that was the end of you.

For the pride of trace and trail was his, and sick unto death, he could not bear that another dog should do his work.

Pray do not interrupt me," he wrote. "I am smiling.

I would rather be a superb meteor, every atom of me in magnificent glow, than a sleepy and permanent planet.