The worst tyrants are those which establish themselves in our own breasts.

We smile at the ignorance of the savage who cuts down the tree in order to reach its fruit; but the same blunder is made by every person who is over eager and impatient in the pursuit of pleasure.

Do anything rather than give yourself to reverie.

A man may quarrel with himself alone; that is, by controverting his better instincts and knowledge when brought face to face with temptation.

No power in society, no hardship in your condition can depress you, keep you down, in knowledge, power, virtue, influence, but by your own consent.

A man might pass for insane who should see things as they are.

We must not waste life in devising means. It is better to plan less and do more.