Next to happiness, perhaps enmity is the most healthful stimulant of the human mind.

The middle of life is the testing-ground of character and strength.

... up to this date, I have never been shut up in a separate room, or hedged off with any observances. My study, all the study I have attained to, is the little 2nd drawing room where all the (feminine) life of the house goes on; and I don't think I have ever had two hours undisturbed (except at night, when everybody is in bed) during my whole literary life.

It is often easier to justify one's self to others than to respond to the secret doubts that arise in one's own bosom.

As for pictures and museums, that don't trouble me. The worst of going abroad is that you've always got to look at things of that sort. To have to do it at home would be beyond a joke.

What happiness is there which is not purchased with more or less of pain?

... I have always been a disappointment to my friends. I have no gift of talk, not much to say; and though I have always been an excellent listener, that only succeeds under auspicious circumstances.