Of 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.

Surely a pretty woman never looks prettier than when making tea.

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.

Paris is a mighty schoolmaster, a grand enlightener of the provincial intellect.

Life is such a very troublesome matter, when all is said and done, that it's as well even to take its blessings quietly.

There can be no reconciliation where there is no open warfare. There must be a battle, a brave boisterous battle, with pennants waving and cannon roaring, before there can be peaceful treaties and enthusiastic shaking of hands.

The strongest proof of repentance is the endeavor to atone.