An able reader often discovers in other people's writings perfections beyond those that the author put in or perceived, and lends them richer meanings and aspects.

There is some shadow of delight and delicacy which smiles upon and flatters us even in the very lap of melancholy.

The worst of my actions or conditions seem not so ugly unto me as I find it both ugly and base not to dare to avouch for them.

There is no course of life so weak and sottish as that which is managed by order, method, and discipline.

I do not speak the minds of others except to speak my own mind better.

I have a vocabulary all my own. I "pass the time" when it is wet and disagreeable. When it is fine I do not wish to pass it; I ruminate it and hold on to it. We should hasten over the bad, and settle upon the good.

He who would teach men to die would teach them to live.