The work of art may have a moral effect, but to demand moral purpose from the artist is to make him ruin his work.

Man can only endure a certain degree of unhappiness; what is beyond that either annihilates him or passes by him and leaves him apathetic

At the end of life thoughts hitherto impossible come to the collected mind, like good spirits which let themselves down from the shining heights of the past.

By seeking and blundering we learn.

An absent friend gives us friendly company when we are well assured of his happiness.

True happiness springs from moderation.

To think is easy. To act is difficult. To act as one thinks is the most difficult.