It may be said, almost without qualification, that true wisdom consists in the ready and accurate perception of analogies. Without the former quality, knowledge of the past is unobstructive: without the latter it is deceptive.

We may print, but not stereotype, our opinions.

Some persons follow the dictates of their conscience only in the same sense in which a coachman may be said to follow the horses he is driving.

It is also important to guard against mistaking for good-nature what is properly good-humor,--a cheerful flow of spirits and easy temper not readily annoyed, which is compatible with great selfishness.

Controversy, though always an evil in itself, is sometimes a necessary evil.

The best security against revolution is in constant correction of abuses and the introduction of needed improvements. It is the neglect of timely repair that makes rebuilding necessary.

Great affectation and great absence of it are at first sight very similar.