I was benevolent and good; misery made me a fiend. Make me happy, and I shall again be virtuous.

I beheld the wretch-the miserable monster whom I had created.

I cherished hope, it is true, but it vanished when my person reflected . . .

Curiosity, earnest research to learn the hidden laws of nature, gladness akin to rapture, as they unfolded to me, are among the earliest sensations I can remember.

Seek happiness in tranquility and avoid ambition even if it be only the apparently innocent one of distinguishing yourself in science and discoveries.

I was benevolent and good; misery made me a fiend. Make me happy, and I shall again be virtuous.

My dreams were at once more fantastic and agreeable than my writings.