I Do Not Say I

Haunted From My Early Youth By The Transitoriness And Pathos Of Life, I Was Aware That It Is Not Enough To Say "i Am Doing No Harm," I Ought To Be Testing Myself Daily, And Asking Myself What I Am Really Achieving.

Too Much Brilliance Has Its Disadvantages, And Misplaced Wit May Raise A Laugh, But Often Beheads A Topic Of Profound Interest.

The Spirit Is An Inward Flame; A Lamp The World Blows Upon But Never Puts Out.

All I Can Say About My Mind Is That, Like A Fire Carefully Laid By A Good Housemaid, It Is One That Any Match Will Light.

[to Her Host Upon Leaving A Party:] Don't Think It Hasn't Been Charming, Because It Hasn't.