If only the bird with the loveliest song sang, the forest would be a lonely place.

The best recommendation I can have is my own talents, and the fruits of my own labors, and what others will not do for me, I will try and do for myself.

Mathematics was hard, dull work, I thought; geography pleased me more. For my other studies, as well as for dancing, I was quite enthusiastic.

To repay evils with kindness is the religion I was taught to practise, and this will forever be my rule.

On the 17th of May, the Delos put out to sea. I was immediately affected with sea-sickness, which, however, lasted but a short time. I remained on deck constantly, forcing myself to exercise.

Almost every day, instead of going to school when I ought to have gone, I usually made for the fields, where I spent the day.

If only the bird with the loveliest song sang, the forest would be a lonely place.