A Gothic cathedral affirms that it was done by us and not done by us.

Conversation is an evanescent relation,--no more.

What omniscience has music! So absolutely impersonal, and yet every sufferer feels his secret sorrow soothed.

We must learn the language of facts. The most wonderful inspirations die with their subject, if he has no hand to paint them to the senses.

God said, I am tired of kings, I suffer them no more; Up to my ear this morning brings The outrage of the poor.

Let us not be too much acquainted. I would have a man enter his house through a hall filled with heroic and sacred sculptures, that he might not want the hint of tranquillity and self-poise.

I hate to be defended in a newspaper. As long as all that is said is said against me, I feel a certain assurance of success. But as soon as honeyed words of praise are spoken for me, I feel as one that lies unprotected before his enemies.