A German writer observes: "The noblest characters only show themselves in their real light. All others act comedy with their fellow-men even unto the grave.

Love and enthusiasm are always ridiculous, when not reciprocated by their objects.

Mediocrity is beneath a brave soul.

... I never will allow myself to form an ideal of any person I desire to see, for disappointment never fails to ensue.

A German writer observes: "The noblest characters only show themselves in their real light. All others act comedy with their fellow-men even unto the grave.

To amend mankind, moralists should show them man, not as he is, but as he ought to be.

I see little alteration at Lyons since I formerly passed through it. Its manufactories are, nevertheless, flourishing, though less improvement than could be expected is visible in the external aspect of the place.