Self-respect is the noblest garment with which a man can clothe himself, the most elevating feeling with which the mind can be inspired.

For want of self-restraint many men are engaged all their lives in fighting with difficulties of their own making.

The iron rail proved a magicians' road. It virtually reduced England to a sixth of its size. It brought the country nearer to the town and the town to the country.... It energized punctuality, discipline, and attention; and proved a moral teacher by the influence of example.

It is possible that the scrupulously honest man may not grow rich so fast as the unscrupulous and dishonest one; but the success will be of a truer kind, earned without fraud or injustice. And even though a man should for a time be unsuccessful, still he must be honest: better lose all and save character. For character is itself a fortune. . . .

Honorable industry always travels the same road with enjoyment and duty, and progress is altogether impossible without it.

It is not eminent talent that is required to ensure success in any pursuit, so much as purpose-not merely the power to achieve, but the will to labour energetically and perseveringly. Hence energy of will may be defined to be the very central power of character in a man-in a word, it is the Man himself.

The shortest way to do many things is to do only one thing at once.