Could we perfect human nature, we might also expect a perfect state of things.

The decline in literature indicates a decline in the nation. The two keep pace in their downward tendency.

Faith is hidden household capital.

My days are as happy as those reserved by God for his elect; and whatever be my fate hereafter, I can never say that I have not tasted joy— the purest joy of life.

We are our own aptest deceiver.

If any man wish to write in a clear style, let him be first clear in his thoughts; and if any would write in a noble style, let him first possess a noble soul.

To have seen Italy without having seen Sicily is to not have seen Italy at all, for Sicily is the clue to everything.