When one promise jostles another, one of 'em isn't a promise.

It is useless to deny that, unless one has a genius for imparting knowledge, teaching is a drudgery.

When two duties jostle each other, one of 'em isn't a duty.

... is there anything more unjust than to build gold and brass and iron on poor, well-meaning clay, -- and then blame the clay when the whole image falls into dust?

there are few things that are more endearing than the grace of listening with attention; indeed, it is more than endearing, it is impressive - for no one knows what wisdom lies concealed in silence!

Truth is like heat or light; its vibrations are endless, and are endlessly felt.

Self-sacrifice which denies common sense is not a virtue. It's a spiritual dissipation.