Since God himself cannot change the past, He is obliged to tolerate the existence of historians.

An obstinate man does not hold opinions, but they hold him; for when he is once possessed with an error, it is, like a devil, only cast out with great difficulty.

They say the test of [literary power] is whether a man can write an inscription. I say, "Can he name a kitten?" And by this test I am condemned, for I cannot.

To die completely, a person must not only forget but be forgotten, and he who is not forgotten is not dead.

Prayers are to men as dolls are to children. They are not without use and comfort, but it is not easy to take them very seriously.

Arguments are like fire-arms which a man may keep at home but should not carry about with him.

Friends are like money, easier made than kept.