It is a great pleasure to escape sometimes from the restless class of Reformers. What if these grievances exist? So do you and I.
The best way to correct a mistake is to make it right.
There is reason in the distinction of civil and uncivil. The manners are sometimes so rough a rind that we doubt whether they cover any core or sap-wood at all.
The man who thrusts his manners upon me does as if he were to insist on introducing me to his cabinet of curiosities, when I wished to see himself.
But the impressions which the morning makes vanish with its dews, and not even the most “persevering mortal” can preserve the memory of its freshness to midday.
Morning brings back the heroic ages.
The walls that fence our fields, as well as modern Rome, and not less the Parthenon itself, are all built of ruins.
You will pardon some obscurities, for there are more secrets in my trade than in most men’s, and yet not voluntarily kept, but inseparable from its very nature. I would gladly tell all that I know about it, and never paint “No Admittance” on my gate.
There are theoretical reformers at all times, and all the world over, living on anticipation.
I love reform better than its modes.
Why do you ever mend your clothes, unless that, wearing them, you may mend your ways. Let us sing.
Resign yourself to the influence of the earth.
Though the youth at last grows indifferent, the laws of the universe are not indifferent, but are forever on the side of the most sensitive.
Loose the world, get lost in it, and find your soul.
Can we not do without the society of our gossip a little while, – have our own thoughts to cheer us?
I believe that it is in my power to elevate myself this very hour above the common level of my life.
In order to die, you must first have lived.
How can you expect the birds to sing when their groves are cut down?
A nation may be ever so civilized and yet lack wisdom.
An efficient and valuable man does what he can, whether the community pay him for it or not.