To discover and to teach are distinct functions; they are also distinct gifts, and are not commonly found united in the same person.

Literature stands related to Man as Science stands to Nature; it is his history.

Let us put ourselves into His hands, and not be startled though He leads us by a strange way, a mirabilis via, as the Church speaks. Let us be sure He will lead us right, that He will bring us to that which is, not indeed what we think best, nor what is best for another, but what is best for us.

God has created me to do Him some definite service; He has committed some work to me which he has not committed to another, I have my mission ... He has not created me for naught ... If I am in sickness, my sickness may serve Him; If I am in sorrow, my sorrow may serve Him. He does nothing in vain. He knows what He is about.

The ears of the common people are holier than the hearts of the priests.

I sought to hear the voice of God and climbed the topmost steeple, but God declared: "Go down again - I dwell among the people.

I shall drink to the Pope, if you please, still, to conscience first, and to the Pope afterwards.