We do what we can, and then make a theory to prove our performance the best.

Society is the stage on which manners are shown; novels are the literature. Novels are the journal or record of manners; and the new importance of these books derives from the fact, that the novelist begins to penetrate the surface, and treat this part of life more worthily.

Will is the measure of power. To a great genius there must be a great will. If the thought is not a lamp to the will, does not proceed to an act, the wise are imbecile. He alone is strong and happy who has a will. The rest are herds. He uses; they are used. He is of the Maker; they are of the Made. Will is always miraculous, being the presence of God to men. When it appears in a man he is a hero, and all metaphysics are at fault.

The foolish man wonders at the unusual, but the wise man at the usual.

He, who loves the bristle of bayonets, only sees in their glitter what beforehand he feels in his hand.

Without ambition one starts nothing. Without work one finishes nothing. The prize will not be sent to you. You have to win it.

What you are shouts at me so loudly that I can't hear a word you say.