Fame, they tell you, is air; but without air there is no life for any; without fame there is none for the best.

I see the rainbow in the sky, the dew upon the grass; I see them, and I ask not why they glimmer or they pass. With folded arms I linger not to call them back; 'twere vain: In this, or in some other spot, I know they'll shine again.

Everything that looks to the future elevates human nature.

Politeness is not always a sign of wisdom; but the want of it always leaves room for a suspicion of folly, if folly and imprudence are the same.

A little praise is good for a shy temper; it teaches it to rely on the kindness of others.

Truth sometimes corner unawares upon Caution, and sometimes speaks in public as unconsciously as in a dream.

The only effect of public punishment is to show the rabble how bravely it can be borne; and that every one who hath lost a toe-nail hath suffered worse.