Great effort from great motives is the best definition of a happy life

Progress, the growth of power, is the end and boon of liberty; and, without this, a people may have the name, but want the substance and spirit of freedom.

The office of government is not to confer happiness, but to give men the opportunity to work out happiness for themselves.

A clear thought, a pure affection, a resolute act of a virtuous will, have a dignity of quite another kind, and far higher than accumulations of brick and granite and plaster and stucco, however cunningly put together.

It is not the quantity but the quality of knowledge which determines the mind's dignity.

The best books for a man are not always those which the wise recommend, but often those which meet the peculiar wants, the natural thirst of his mind, and therefore awaken interest and rivet thought.

Most joyful let the Poet be, it is through him that all men see.