Sincerity is impossible, unless it pervades the whole being, and the pretence of it saps the very foundation of character

It is easier to discover deficiencies in indivuduals, states and providence than to see their real import and value.

Be still when you have nothing to say; when genuine passion moves you, say whatyou've got to say, and say it hot.

No onewould talk much in society; if he knew how often he misunderstands others.

Mostpeople I ask little from. I try to give them much, and expect nothing inreturn and I do very well in the bargain.

The desire of appearing clever often prevents our becoming so.

Too little liberty brings stagnation, too much brings chaos.

If your mouth turns into a knife, it will cut off yourlips.

Power consists in one's capacity to link his will with thepurpose of others, to lead by reason and a gift of cooperation.

Any general statement is like a cheque drawn on a bank. Its value depends on what is there to meet it.

Talkingcomes by nature, silence by wisdom.

Far better to think historically, to remember the lessonsof the past. Thus, far better to conceive of power as consisting in part ofthe knowledge of when not to use all the power you have. Far better to be onewho knows that if you reserve the power not to