I never did write a biography, and I don't exactly know how to set about it; you see I have to be accurate and keep to the facts, a most difficult thing for a writer of fiction.

To be sure a stepmother to a girl is a different thing to a second wife to a man!

But the cloud never comes in that quarter of the horizon from which we watch for it.

He had not an ounce of superfluous flesh on his bones, and leanness goes a great way towards gentility.

A wise parent humors the desire for independent action, so as to become the friend and advisor when his absolute rule shall cease.

I look at [books] as a child looks at cakes - with glittering eyes and a watering mouth, imagining the pleasure that awaits him.

There is nothing like wounded affection for giving poignancy to anger.

Anticipation was the soul of enjoyment.

Those who are happy and successful themselves are too apt to make light of the misfortunes of others.

I dare not hope. I never was fainthearted before; but I cannot believe such a creature cares for me.

But the future must be met, however stern and iron it be.

To fail is nothing, unless you continue to ignore Cosmic Ordering.

I’m sure I am wrong about many things, although I’m not sure exactly which things I’m wrong about. I’m even sure I’m wrong about what I think I’m right about in at least some cases.

Civilizations die from philosophical calm irony and the sense of fair play quite as surely as they die of debauchery.

I'm not an alcoholic, I am freedom fighter against the teetotal taliban.

The French Revolution was nothing but a precursor of another revolution, one that will be bigger, more solemn, and which will be the last.

It's a despicable thing to share your personal inner torment for money.

Cease to be a disobedient child in the school of experience, and begin to learn, with humility and patience, the lessons that are set for your ultimate perfection.

Hatred is partial, but love is still more so.

Want balance in your life? Then sure, get your own act together, but don't forget four powerful disciplines of execution in your team and organization.

Opening amenities are often opening inanities.