We judge of a man's wisdom by his hope, knowing that the inexhaustibleness of nature is an immortal youth.

In the learned journal, in the influential newspaper, I discern no form; only some irresponsible shadow; oftener some monied corporation, or some dangler, who hopes, in the mask and robes of his paragraph, to pass for somebody. But through every clause and part of speech of the right book I meet the eyes of the most determined men; his force and terror inundate every word: the commas and dashes are alive; so that the writing is athletic and nimble,--can go far and live long.

Whenever a true theory appears, it will be its own evidence. Its test is, that it will explain all phenomena.

The great majority of men are bundles of beginnings

We must not inquire too curiously into the absolute value of literature. Enough that it amuses and exercises us. At least it leaves us where we were. It names things, but does not add things.

God evidently does not intend us all to be rich, or powerful or great, but He does intend us all to be friends.

Passion rebuilds the world for the youth. It makes all things alive and significant.