Old age takes from the man of intellect no qualities save those that are useless to wisdom.

Know that morality is a curb, not a spur.

Words become luminous when the poet's finger has passed over them its phosphorescence.

Antiquity! I like its ruins better than its reconstructions.

There is graciousness and a kind of urbanity in beginning with men by esteem and confidence. It proves, at least, that we have long lived in good company with others and with our selves.

The sound of the drum drives out thought; for that very reason it is the most military of instruments.

To the liberal ideas of the age must be opposed the moral ideas of all ages.