High original genius is always ridiculed on its first appearance; most of all by those who have won themselves the highest reputation in working on the established lines. Genius only commands recognition when it has created the taste which is to appreciate it.

Instruction does not prevent wasted time or mistakes; and mistakes themselves are often the best teachers of all.

The moral system of the universe is like a document written in alternate ciphers, which change from line to line.

History is a voice forever sounding across the centuries the laws of right and wrong. Opinions alter, manners change, creeds rise and fall, but the moral law is written on the tablets of eternity.

Ignorance is the dominion of absurdity.

Crime is not punished as an offense against God, but as prejudicial to society.

Men think to mend their condition by a change of circumstances. They might as well hope to escape from their shadows.