The essence of true nobility is neglect of self. Let the thought of self pass in, and the beauty of a great action is gone, like the bloom from a soiled flower.

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.

Carelessness is inexcusable, and merits the inevitable sequence.

The essence of greatness is neglect of the self.

Truth only smells sweet forever, and illusions, however innocent, are deadly as the canker worm.

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

A single seed of fact will produce in a season or two a harvest of calumnies; but sensible men will pay no attention to them.