I have inherited this burden of superstition and nonsense. I govern innumerable men but must acknowledge that I am governed by birds and thunderclaps

Many great writers have been extraordinarily awkward in daily exchange, but the greatest give the impression that their style was nursed by the closest attention to colloquial speech.

I am my own judge of what truths I shall tell. The truth can do just as much harm as a lie.

I have inherited this burden of superstition and nonsense. I govern innumerable men but must acknowledge that I am governed by birds and thunderclaps

But such occasions of excellence became less and less frequent. As her technique became sounder, [her] sincerity became less necessary.

Providence has nothing good or high in store for one who does not resolutely aim at something high or good. A purpose is the eternal condition of success.

Imprisonment of the body is bitter; imprisonment of the mind is worse