Begin and proceed on a settled conviction that but little is permitted to any man to do or to know, and if he complies with the first grand laws, he shall do well.

A man should learn to detect and watch that gleam of light which flashes across his mind from within, more than the luster of the firmament of bards and sages

No love can be bound by oath or covenant to secure it against a higher love.

The measure of action is the sentiment from which it proceeds. The greatest action may easily be one of the most private circumstance.

Nature and books belong to the eyes that see them. It depends on the mood of the man, whether he shall see the sunset or the fine poem. There are always sunsets, and there is always genius; but only a few hours so serene that we can relish nature or criticism. The more or less depends on structure or temperament. Temperament is the iron wire on which the beads are strung. Of what use is fortune or talent to a cold and defective store?

There was never anything that did not proceed from a thought.

It is dainty to be sick if you have leisure and convenience for it.