A determined man, by his very attitude and the tone of his voice, puts a stop to defeat, and begins to conquer.

Universally, the better gold the worse man. The political economist defies us to show any gold mine country that is traversed by good roads, or a shore where pearls are found on which good schools are erected.

Rings and other jewels are not gifts, but apologies for gifts. The only gift is a portion of thyself.

We are such lovers of self-reliance, that we excuse in a man many sins, if he will show us a complete satisfaction in his position, which asks no leave to be, of mine, or any man's good opinion.

When at last in a race a new principle appears, an idea--that conserves it; ideas only save races.

We may be partial, but Fate is not.

If I have renounced the search of truth, if I have come into the port of some pretending dogmatism, some new church, some Schelling or Cousin, I have died to all use of these new events that are born out of prolific time into multitude of life every hour. I am as bankrupt to whom brilliant opportunities offer in vain. He has just foreclosed his freedom, tied his hands, locked himself up and given the key to another to keep.