That which is always within our reach, is always the last thing we take; and the chances are, that what we can do every day, we never do at all.

We would liken music to Aladdin's lamp — worthless in itself, not so for the spirits which obey its call. We love it for the buried hopes, the garnered memories, the tender feelings, it can summon with a touch.

There is no existence so content as that whose present is engrossed by employment, and whose future is filled by some strong hope, the truth of which is never proved. Toil and illusion are the only secrets to make life tolerable.

The old proverb, applied to fire and water, may with equal truth be applied to the imagination - it is a good servant, but a bad master.

the fact is, that life is too short to be occupied by aught but the present - hope and remembrance are equally a waste of time.

Assuredly, meeting after absence, is one of - ah, no! - it is life's most delicious feeling.

That which is always within our reach, is always the last thing we take; and the chances are, that what we can do every day, we never do at all.