There are those to whom a sense of religion has come in storm and tempest; there are those whom it has summoned amid scenes of revelry and idle vanity; there are those, too, who have heard its "still small voice" amid rural leisure and placid retirement. But perhaps the knowledge which causeth not to err is most frequently impressed upon the mind during the season of affliction.

The chain of friendship, however bright, does not stand the attrition of constant close contact.

A sound head, an honest heart, and an humble spirit are the three best guides through time and to eternity.

Silence, maiden; thy tongue outruns thy discretion.

There is a southern proverb - fine words butter no parsnips.

Spangling the wave with lights as vain As pleasures in the vale of pain, That dazzle as they fade.

It is the privilege of tale-tellers to open their story in an inn, the free rendezvous of all travellers, and where the humour of each displays itself, without ceremony or restraint.