Every great man is always being helped by everybody, for his gift is to get good out of all things and all persons.

... A power of obtaining veracity in the representation of material and tangible things, which, within certain limits and conditions, is unimpeachable, has now been placed in the hands of all men, almost without labour. (1853)

The work of science is to substitute facts for appearances, and demonstrations for impressions.

Contrast increases the splendor of beauty, but it disturbs its influence; it adds to its attractiveness, but diminishes its power.

The path of a good woman is indeed strewn with flowers; but they rise behind her steps, not before them.

There is no action so slight or so mean but it may be done to a great purpose, and ennobled thereby.

Obey something, and you will have a chance to learn what is best to obey. But if you begin by obeying nothing, you will end by obeying the devil and all his invited friends.