...we all know that in all matters of mere opinion that [every] man is insane-just as insane as we are...we know exactly where to put our finger upon his insanity: it is where his opinion differs from ours....All Democrats are insane, but not one of them knows it. None but the Republicans. All the Republicans are insane, but only the Democrats can perceive it. The rule is perfect: in all matters of opinion our adversaries are insane.

When in doubt tell the truth. It will confound your enemies and astound your friends.

Civilization largely consists in hiding human nature. When the barbarian learns to hide it we account him enlightened.

Apparently there is nothing that cannot happen today.

America cannot have an empire abroad and a Republic at home.

When angry, count to a hundred.

There is only one expert who is qualified to examine the souls and the life of a people and make a valuable report - the native novelist. ... And when a thousand able novels have been written, there you have the soul of the people; and not anywhere else can these be had.