There was nothing but land; not a country at all, but the material out of which countries are made.

To note an artist's limitations is but to define his talent. A reporter can write equally well about everything that is presented to his view, but a creative writer can do his best only with what lies within the range and character of his deepest sympathies.

In a few hours one could cover that incalculable distance; from the winter country and homely neighbours, to the city where the air trembled like a tuning-fork with unimaginable possibilities.

Old men are like that, you know. It makes them feel important to think they are in love with somebody.

Paris is a hard place to leave, even when it rains incessantly and one coughs continually from the dampness.

If youth did not matter so much to itself, it would never have the heart to go on.

Loyal? As loyal as anyone who plays second fiddle ever is.