He who would acquire fame must not show himself afraid of censure. The dread of censure is the death of genius.

The dread of criticism is the death of genius.

Tact is one of the first of mental virtues, the absence of which is frequently fatal to the best of talents. Without denying that it is a talent of itself, it will suffice if we admit that it supplies the place of many talents.

The effect of character is always to command consideration. We sport and toy and laugh with men or women who have none, but we never confide in them.

Solitude bears the same relation to the mind that sleep does to the body. It affords it the necessary opportunities for repose and recovery.

Vanity may be likened to the smooth-skinned and velvet-footed mouse, nibbling about forever in expectation of a crumb; while self-esteem is too apt to take the likeness of the huge butcher's dog, who carries off your steaks, and growls at you as be goes.

Modesty is policy, no less than virtue.