The business of the dramatist is to keep himself out of sight, and to let nothing appear but his characters. As soon as he attracts notice to his personal feelings, the illusion is broken.

There is no country in Europe which is so easy to over-run as Spain; there is no country which it is more difficult to conquer.

In truth it may be laid down as an almost universal rule that good poets are bad critics.

If any person had told the Parliament which met in terror and perplexity after the crash of 1720 that in 1830 the wealth of England would surpass all their wildest dreams, that the annual revenue would equal the principal of that debt which they considered an intolerable burden, that for one man of

In perseverance, in self command, in forethought, in all virtues which conduce to success in life, the Scots have never been surpassed.

The effect of violent dislike between groups has always created an indifference to the welfare and honor of the state.

In after-life you may have friends--fond, dear friends; but never will you have again the inexpressible love and gentleness lavished upon you which none but a mother bestows.