Fame, we may understand, is no sure test of merit, but only a probability of such; it is an accident, not a property of man.

Nature alone is antique, and the oldest art a mushroom.

All deep things are song. It seems somehow the very central essence of us, song; as if all the rest were but wrappages and hulls!

Neither in tailoring nor in legislating does man proceed by mere accident.

I should say sincerity, a deep, great, genuine sincerity, is the first characteristic of all men in any way heroic.

Wonderful Force of Public Opinion! We must act and walk in all points as it prescribes; follow the traffic it bids us, realize the sum of money, the degree of influence it expects of us, or we shall be lightly esteemed; certain mouthfuls of articulate wind will be blown at us, and this what mortal courage can front?

Is not light grander than fire?