Good character is property. It is the noblest of all possessions.

Childhood is like a mirror, which reflects in after life the images first presented to it.

Like men, nations are purified and strengthened by trials.

The work of many of the greatest men, inspired by duty, has been done amidst suffering and trial and difficulty. They have struggled against the tide, and reached the shore exhausted.

Experience serves to prove that the worth and strength of a state depend far less upon the form of its institutions than upon the character of its men; for the nation is only the aggregate of individual conditions, and civilization itself is but a question of personal, improvement.

Persons with comparatively moderate powers will accomplish much, if they apply themselves wholly and indefatigably to one thing at a time.

Politeness goes far, yet costs nothing.