Piety softens all that courage bears.

The only true method of action in this world is to be in it, but not of it.

Old age is not one of the beauties of creation, but it is one of its harmonies. The law of contrasts is one of the laws of beauty. Under the conditions of our climate, shadow gives light its worth; sternness enhances mildness; solemnity, splendor. Varying proportions of size support and subserve one another.

Those who have suffered much are like those who know many languages; they have learned to understand and be understood by all.

Kindness causes us to learn, and to forget, many things.

America has begun her career at the culminating point of life, as Adam did at the age of thirty.

He who has ceased to enjoy his friend's superiority has ceased to love him.