I suppose as long as novels last, and authors aim at interesting their public, there must always be in the story a virtuous and gallant hero; a wicked monster, his opposite; and a pretty girl, who finds a champion. Bravery and virtue conquer beauty; and vice, after seeming to triumph through a certain number of pages, is sure to be discomfited in the last volume, when justice overtakes him, and honest folks come by their own.
William Makepeace ThackerayOh, those women! They nurse and cuddle their presentiments, and make darlings of their ugliest thoughts.
William Makepeace ThackerayLife is soul's nursery- its training place for the destinies of eternity.
William Makepeace ThackerayUnder the magnetism of friendship the modest man becomes bold; the shy, confident; the lazy, active; and the impetuous, prudent and peaceful.
William Makepeace Thackeray