We are the children of many sires, and every drop of blood in us in its turn betrays its ancestor.

I honor health as the first Muse.

When God lets loose a great thinker on this planet, then all things are at risk. There is not a piece of science but its flank may be turned to-morrow; nor any literary reputation or the so-called eternal names of fame that many not be refused and condemned.

In the country, without any interference from the law, the agricultural life favors the permanence of families.

The trail of the serpent reaches into all the lucrative professions and practices of man. Each has its own wrongs. Each finds a tender and very intelligent conscience a disqualification for success. Each requires of the practitioner a certain shutting of the eyes, a certain dapperness and compliance, an acceptance of customs, a sequestration from the sentiments of generosity and love, a compromise of private opinion and lofty integrity.

By necessity, by proclivity, and by delight, we all quote.

The efforts which we make to escape from our destiny only serve to lead us into it.