The more a man acts on his own, the more he develops himself. In large associations he is too prone to become merely an instrument.

Coercion may prevent many transgressions; but it robs even actions which are legal of a part of their beauty. Freedom may lead to many transgressions, but it lends even to vices a less ignoble form.

Man is more disposed to domination than freedom; and a structure of dominion not only gladdens the eye of the master who rears and protects it, but even its servants are uplifted by the thought that they are members of a whole, which rises high above the life and strength of single generations.

Life, in all ranks and situations, is an outward occupation, an actual and active work.

Faith can be interested in results only, for a truth once recognized as such puts an end to the believer's thinking.

Joy mingled with sadness, even with grief, is the deepest human joy. It winds itself about the soul with indescribable sweetness, with a dim but unerring sense for what will some day be born of it.

It is continued temperance which sustains the body for the longest period of time, and which most surely preserves it free from sickness.