It is the close observation of little things which is the secret of success in business, in art, in science, and in every pursuit of life.

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

When typhus or cholera breaks out, they tell us that Nobody is to blame. That terrible Nobody! How much he has to answer for. More mischief is done by Nobody than by all the world besides.

It is a grand old name, that of gentleman, and has been recognized as a rank and power in all stages of society. To possess this character is a dignity of itself, commanding the instinctive homage of every generous mind, and those who will not bow to titular rank will yet do homage to the gentleman. His qualities depend not upon fashion or manners, but upon moral worth; not on personal possessions, but on personal qualities.

Men often discover their affinity to each other by the mutual love they have for a book.

Practical wisdom is only to be learned in the school of experience. Precepts and instruction are useful so far as they go, but, without the discipline of real life, they remain of the nature of theory only.

Self-control is only courage under another form. It may also be regarded as the primary essence of character.