Nobility of birth is like a cipher; it has no power in itself, like wealth or talent; but, it tells with all the power of a cipher when added to either of the other two.

Nobility of birth is like a cipher; it has no power in itself, like wealth or talent; but, it tells with all the power of a cipher when added to either of the other two.

There are some books and characters so pleasant, or rather which contain so much that is pleasant, that criticism is perplexed or silent. The hounds are perpetually at fault among the sweet-scented herbs and flowers that grow at the base of Etna.

Strict punctuality is perhaps the cheapest virtue which can give force to an otherwise utterly insignificant character.

Friends should be very delicate and careful in administering pity as medicine, when enemies use the same article as poison.

Where we find echoes, we generally find emptiness and hollowness; it is the contrary with the echoes of the heart.

It would be a great advantage to some schoolmasters if they would steal two hours a day from their pupils and give their own minds the benefit of the robbery.