as all clocks need winding, so all human brains and bodies need to be wound up by sleeping.

The mind is a phonograph which shall keep and echo the impressions of the past.

We do not take much warning of our own mortality in seeing others die, nor of our own weakness in seeing others break down: we think we feel the springs of life stronger in us.

the less you respect, the less respectable you are; the less you honor, the less in you is to be honored. There are those 'whom not to know argues one's self unknown,' so if you have no reverence in a world where there is so much that is noble and venerable, then there will be something terrible lacking in your own character.

it is always easier to see the beginning from the end, than the end from the beginning.

human honesty has its varieties; so does human ignorance.

true courtesy ... is real kindness kindly expressed.