"Example has more followers than reason. We unconsciously imitate what pleases us, and insensibly approximate to the characters we most admire. In this way, a generous habit of thought and of action carries with it an incalculable influence."

“The first step toward greatness is to be honest, says the proverb; but the proverb fails to state the case strong enough. Honesty is not only "the first step toward greatness," — it is greatness itself.”

“Four sweet lips, two pure souls, and one undying affection,—these are love's pretty ingredients for a kiss.”

“Formerly when great fortunes were only made in war, war was a business; but now, when great fortunes are only made by business, business is war.”

“Patience is only one faculty; earnestness the devotion of all the faculties. Earnestness is the cause of patience; it gives endurance, overcomes pain, strengthens weakness, braves dangers, sustains hope, makes light of difficulties, and lessens the sense of weariness in overcoming them.”

“There is probably no hell for authors in the next world — they suffer so much from critics and publishers in this.”

“Melancholy sees the worst of things,—things as they may be, and not as they are. It looks upon a beautiful face, and sees but a grinning skull.”