When a whole nation is roaring patriotism at the top of its voice, I am fain to explore the cleanness of its hands and the purity of its heart.

We do what we must, and call it by the best names.

Though your views are in straight antagonism to theirs, assume an identity of sentiment, assume that you are saying precisely thatwhich all think, and in the flow of wit and love roll out your paradoxes in solid column, with not the infirmity of a doubt.

God never jests with us, and will not compromise the end of nature, by permitting any inconsequence in its procession.

The proof of a high education is the ability to speak about complex matters as simply as possible.

Every man's Reason is sufficient for his guidance, if used.

In sculpture did ever anybody call the Apollo a fancy piece? Or say of the Laocoon how it might be made different? A masterpiece of art has in the mind a fixed place in the chain of being, as much as a plant or a crystal.