One act of beneficence, one act of real usefulness, is worth all the abstract sentiment in the world. Sentiment is a disgrace, instead of an ornament, unless it lead us to good actions.

When her mind was discomposed... a book was the opiate that lulled it to repose.

There is some comfort in dying surrounded by one's children.

What has a man's face to do with his character? Can a man of good character help having a disagreeable face?

A well-informed mind is the best security against the contagion of folly and of vice. The vacant mind is ever on the watch for relief, and ready to plunge into error, to escape from the languor of idleness.

Happiness arises in a state of peace, not of tumult.