Imparting knowledge is only lighting other men's candles at our lamp without depriving ourselves of any flame.

The only impregnable citadel of virtue is religion; for there is no bulwark of mere morality, which some temptation may not overtop or undermine, and destroy.

none are fit judges of greatness but those who are capable of it.

Beauty of form affects the mind, but then it must be understood that it is not the mere shell that we admire; we are attracted by the idea that this shell is only a beautiful case adjusted to the shape and value of a still more beautiful pearl within. The perfection of outward loveliness is the soul shining through its crystalline covering.

we never know the blessings bestowed on us until we are separated from the possession of them.

A generous spirit is as eloquent in acknowledging benefits as it is bounteous in bestowing them.

Guilt is a spiritual Rubicon.