There is nothing so clear-sighted and sensible as a noble mind in a low estate.

The pure in heart are slow to credit calumnies, because they hardly comprehend what motives can be inducements to the alleged crimes.

The flatterer easily insinuates himself into the closet, while honest merit stands shivering in the hall or antechamber.

Compulsion hardly restores right; love yields all things.

He that easily believes rumors has the principle within him to augment rumors. It is strange to see the ravenous appetite with which some devourers of character and happiness fix upon the sides of the innocent and unfortunate.

The platform or the altar of love may be analyzed and explained; it is constructed of virtue, beauty, and affection. Such is the pyre, such is the offering; but the ethereal spark must come from heaven, that lights the sacrifice.

Yet happiness isn't something you chase, it's something you are. It's something you think, it's something you believe.