Every great institution is the lengthened shadow of a single man. His character determines the character of the organization.

Since everything in nature answers to a moral power, if any phenomenon remains brute and dark, it is that the corresponding faculty in the observer is not yet active.

Shakespeare will never be made by the study of Shakespeare.

In politics and in trade, bruisers and pirates are of better promise than talkers and clerks.

Fashion understands itself; good-breeding and personal superiority of whatever country readily fraternize with those of every other. The chiefs of savage tribes have distinguished themselves in London and Paris, by the purity of their tournure.

Enlarge not thy destiny, said the oracle: endeavor not to do more than is given thee in charge.

The eye is the best of artists.