In solitude the mind gains strength and learns to lean upon itself.

I begin with writing the first sentence—and trusting to Almighty God for the second.

We may imitate the Deity in all His attributes; but mercy is the only one in which we can pretend to equal Him. We cannot, indeed, give like God; but surely we may forgive like Him.

Digressions, incontestably, are the sunshine, the life, the soul of reading! Take them out and one cold eternal winter would reign in every page. Restore them to the writer - he steps forth like a bridegroom, bids them all-hail, brings in variety and forbids the appetite to fail.

Plutarch has a fine expression, with regard to some woman of learning, humility, and virtue;--that her ornaments were such as might be purchased without money, and would render any woman's life both glorious and happy.

Whatever stress some may lay upon it, a death-bed repentance is but a weak and slender plank to trust our all on.

For I begin with writing the first sentence, — and trusting to Almighty God for the second.