... 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 common practice of keeping up appearances with society is a mere selfish struggle of the vain with the vain.

If you do not wish for His kingdom do not pray for it. But if you do you must do more than pray for it, you must work for it.

High art consists neither in altering, nor in improving nature; but in seeking throughout nature for 'whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are pure;' in loving these, in displaying to the utmost of the painter's power such loveliness as is in them, and directing the thoughts of others to them by winning art, or gentle emphasis.

No good work whatever can be perfect, and the demand for perfection is always a sign of a misunderstanding of the ends of art.

Let every dawn of morning be to you as the beginning of life, and every setting sun be to you as its close: — then let every one of these short lives leave its sure record of some kindly thing done for others — some goodly strength or knowledge gained for yourselves.

The last act crowns the play.