The inquiry leads us to that source, at once the essence of genius, of virtue, and of life, which we call Spontaneity or Instinct.

Let us interrogate the great apparition, that shines so peacefully around us.

We love force and we care very little how it is exhibited.

Friendship should be surrounded with ceremonies and respects, and not crushed into corners.

I hate this shallow Americanism which hopes to get rich by credit, to get knowledge by raps on midnight tables, to learn the economy of the mind by phrenology, or skill without study, or mastery without apprenticeship.

The secret of success in education is respecting the students.

All good conversation, manners, and action come from a spontaneity which forgets usages and makes the moment great.