I look only to the good qualities of men. Not being faultless myself, I won't presume to probe into the faults of others.

Just as treasures are uncovered from the earth, so virtue appears from good deeds, and wisdom appears from a pure and peaceful mind. To walk safely through the maze of human life, one needs the light of wisdom and the guidance of virtue.

Chance is always powerful. Let your hook always be cast; in the pool where you least expect it, there will be fish.

A peace is of the nature of a conquest; for then both parties nobly are subdued, and neither party loser.

I usually write in my kitchen, which is a large, octagonal room that looks into woods - three big windows look out into the trees.