History is but a confused heap of facts.

The possibility of remedying imprudent actions is commonly an inducement to commit them.

Deafness produces bizarre effects, reversing the natural order of things; the interchange of letters is the conversation of the deaf, and the only link with society. I would be in despair, for instance, over seeing you speak, but, instead, I am only too happy to hear you write.

You will find that reason, which always ought to direct mankind, seldom does; but that passions and weaknesses commonly usurp itsseat, and rule in its stead.

If you have an hour, will you not improve that hour, instead of idling it away?

Prepare yourself for the world, as athletes used to do for their exercises; oil your mind and your manners, to give them the necessary suppleness and flexibility; strength alone will not do.

Politicians neither love nor hate. Interest, not sentiment, directs them.