A man is like a bit of Labrador spar, which has no luster as you turn it in your hand, until you come to a particular angle; then it shows deep and beautiful colors.

A man must thank his defects, and stand in some terror of his talents. A transcendent talent draws so largely on his forces as tolame him; a defect pays him revenues on the other side.

We are the children of many sires, and every drop of blood in us in its turn betrays its ancestor.

Teaching is the perpetual end and office of all things. Teaching, instruction is the main design that shines through the sky and earth.

Action is the process whereby what is not fully formed passes into expressive consciousness.

We know that madness belongs to love,--what power to paint a vile object in hues of heaven.

Every man has a choice between love of truth and love of repose. Love of repose brings him a solid reputation and peaceful life; love of truth keeps him in suspense. A man who loves truth respects the highest law of his being.