It is a common mistake in going to war to begin at the wrong end, to act first, and wait for disasters to discuss the matter.

It is a common mistake in going to war to begin at the wrong end, to act first, and wait for disasters to discuss the matter.

To be an object of hatred and aversion to their contemporaries has been the usual fate of all those whose merit has raised them above the common level. The man who submits to the shafts of envy for the sake of noble objects pursues a judicious course for his own lasting fame. Hatred dies with its object, while merit soon breaks forth in full splendor, and his glory is handed down to posterity in never-dying strains.

When one is deprived of ones liberty, one is right in blaming not so much the man who puts the shackles on as the one who had the power to prevent him, but did not use it.

Boasting and bravado may exist in the breast even of the coward, if he is successful through a mere lucky hit; but a just contempt of an enemy can alone arise in those who feel that they are superior to their opponent by the prudence of their measures.

Stories happen to those who tell them.

Self-control is the chief element in self-respect, and respect of self, in turn, is the chief element in courage.