I was told once by some country people that a magician should never tell his dreams because the telling will make them come true. But I say that is great nonsense.

It is also true that his hair had a reddish tinge and, as everybody knows, no one with red hair can ever truly be said to be handsome.

Lovers are rarely the most rational beings in creation.

And how shall I think of you?' He considered a moment and then laughed. 'Think of me with my nose in a book!

Such nonsense!" declared Dr Greysteel. "Whoever heard of cats doing anything useful!" "Except for staring at one in a supercilious manner," said Strange. "That has a sort of moral usefulness, I suppose, in making one feel uncomfortable and encouraging sober reflection upon one's imperfections.

Magic, madam, is like wine and, if you are not used to it, it will make you drunk.

Time and I have quarrelled. All hours are midnight now. I had a clock and a watch, but I destroyed them both. I could not bear the way they mocked me.