Of all the talents bestowed upon men, none is so precious as the gift of oratory. He who enjoys it wields a power more durable than that of a great king. He is an independent force in the world.

After a time, civil servants tend to become no longer servants and no longer civil.

The only traditions of the Royal Navy are rum, sodomy and the lash.

There is, therefore, wisdom in reserving one's decisions as long as possible and until all the facts and forces that will be potent at the moment are revealed.

I do not presume to explain how to paint, but only how to get enjoyment.

When a new book appears one should read an old one.

History unfolds itself by strange and unpredictable paths. We have little control over the future; and none at all over the past.