Within that awful volume lies The mystery of mysteries! Happiest they of human race, To whom God has granted grace To read, to fear, to hope, to pray, To lift the latch, and force the way: And better had they ne'er been born, Who read to doubt, or read to scorn.

Sir Walter Scott

Sir Walter Scott

Related Quotes

One hour of life, crowded to the full with glorious action, and filled with noble risks, is worth whole years of those mean observances of paltry decorum.

— Sir Walter Scott

Discretion is being able to raise your eyebrow instead of your voice.

— Sir Walter Scott

High minds, of native pride and force, Most deeply feel thy pangs, Remorse; Fear, for their scourge, means villains have, Thou art the torturer of the brave!

— Sir Walter Scott

I cannot tell how the truth may be; I say the tale as 'twas said to me.

— Sir Walter Scott

A foot more light, a step more true, Ne'er from the heath-flower dashed the dew.

— Sir Walter Scott