Self-assertion may deceive the ignorant for a time; but when the noise dies away, we cut open the drum, and find it was emptiness that made the music.
Mary Elizabeth BraddonOf course there are exceptional circumstances, and there is exceptional talent; but, unhappily, exceptional talent does not always win its reward unless favoured by exceptional circumstances.
Mary Elizabeth BraddonMy intellect is a little way upon the wrong side of that narrow boundary-line between sanity and insanity.
Mary Elizabeth Braddon