If the internal griefs of every man could be read, written on his forehead, how many who now excite envy would appear to be the objects of pity?

The aged oak upon the steep stands more firm and secure if assailed by angry winds; for if the winter bares its head, the more strongly it strikes its roots into the ground, acquiring strength as it loses beauty.

The canker which the trunk conceals is revealed by the leaves, the fruit, or the flower.

It is the just decree of Heaven that a traitor never sees his danger till his ruin is at hand.

Though the Indian ocean abounds in rich and rare gems, it does not boast a clearer sky nor more unruffled sea. If there be a shore that dreads not the fury of the faithless billows, it is some poor and narrow inlet unknown to the winds.

Every noble acquisition is attended with its risks; he who fears to encounter the one must not expect to obtain the other.

Sharp and fell remorse, the offspring of my sin! Why do you, O God, lacerate my heart so late? Why, O boding cries, that scream so close to me,--why do I listen to you now, and never heard you before?