Hope is to a man as a bladder to a learning swimmer--it keeps him from sinking in the bosom of the waves, and by that help he may attain the exercise; but yet it many times makes him venture beyond his height, and then if that breaks, or a storm rises, he drowns without recovery. How many would die, did not hope sustain them! How many have died by hoping too much! This wonder we find in Hope, that she is both a flatterer and a true friend.
Owen FelthamTruth and fidelity are the pillars of the temple of the world; when these are broken, the fabric falls, and crushes all to pieces.
Owen FelthamThat man is but of the lower part of the world that is not brought up to business and affairs.
Owen Feltham