Thought is the property of him who can entertain it, and of him who can adequately place it.

It is easy to see that what is best written or done by genius in the world, was no man's work but came by wide social labor, whena thousand wrought like one, sharing the same impulse.

You cannot give anything to a magnanimous person. After you have served him, he at once puts you in debt by his magnanimity.

As gas-light is found to be the best nocturnal police, so the universe protects itself by pitiless publicity.

Nature is what you may do. There is much you may not do.

I thought as I rode in the cold pleasant light of Sunday morning how silent & passive nature offers, every morn, her wealth to man; she is immensely rich, he is welcome to her entire goods, which he speaks no word, only leaves over doors ajar, hall, store room, & cellar. He may do as he will: if he takes her hint & uses her goods, she speaks no word; if he blunders & starves, she says nothing.

People who wash much have a high mind about it, and talk down to those who wash little.