Vanity may be likened to the smooth-skinned and velvet-footed mouse, nibbling about forever in expectation of a crumb; while self-esteem is too apt to take the likeness of the huge butcher's dog, who carries off your steaks, and growls at… — William Gilmore Simms Copy Share Image
Distinction is an eminence that is attained but too frequently at the expense of a fireside. — William Gilmore Simms Copy Share Image
I believe that economists put decimal points in their forecasts to show they have a sense of humor. — William Gilmore Simms Copy Share Image
Today's public opinion, though it may appear as light as air, may be tomorrow's legislation-for better or for worse. — William Gilmore Simms Copy Share Image
The wonder is not that the world is so easily governed, but that so small a number of persons will suffice for the purpose.… — William Gilmore Simms Copy Share Image
Tact is one of the first mental virtues, the absence of which is often fatal to the best of talents; it supplies the place… — William Gilmore Simms Copy Share Image
Ambition is frequently the only refuge which life has left to the denied or mortified affections. We chide at the grasping eye, the daring… — William Gilmore Simms Copy Share Image
The true law of the race is progress and development. Whenever civilization pauses in the march of conquest, it is overthrown by the barbarian. — William Gilmore Simms Copy Share Image
Better that we should err in action than wholly refuse to perform. The storm is so much better than the calm, as it declares… — William Gilmore Simms Copy Share Image
He who would acquire fame must not show himself afraid of censure. The dread of censure is the death of genius. — William Gilmore Simms Copy Share Image
What we call vice in our neighbor may be nothing less than a crude virtue. To him who knows nothing more of precious stones… — William Gilmore Simms Copy Share Image
The birth of a child is the imprisonment of a soul. The soul must work its way out of prison, and, in doing so,… — William Gilmore Simms Copy Share Image
Public opinion is the greatest force for good, when it happens to be on our side — William Gilmore Simms Copy Share Image
