The universe does not jest with us, but is in earnest.

Things have their laws as well as men, and things refuse to be trifled with.

The crime which bankrupts men and nations is that of turning aside from one's main purpose to serve a job here and there.

If the gatherer gathers too-much, Nature takes out of the man what she puts into his chest; swells the estate, but kills the owner. Nature hates, monopolies and exceptions.

It is always a practical difficulty with clubs to regulate the laws of election so as to exclude peremptorily every social nuisance. Nobody wishes bad manners. We must have loyalty and character.

Vivacity, leadership, must be had, and we are not allowed to be nice in choosing. We must fetch the pump with dirty water, if clean cannot be had.

Sorrow looks back, Worry looks around, Faith looks up