But for that blindness which is inseparable from malice, what terrible powers of evil would it possess! Fortunately for the world, its venom, like that of the rattlesnake, when most poisonous, clouds the eye of the reptile, and defeats its… — 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
I believe that economists put decimal points in their forecasts to show they have a sense of humor. — William Gilmore Simms Copy Share
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
Public opinion is the greatest force for good, when it happens to be on our side — William Gilmore Simms Copy Share
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… — William Gilmore Simms Copy Share
Tact is one of the first mental virtues, the absence of it is fatal to the best talent. — William Gilmore Simms Copy Share
Neither praise or blame is the object of true criticism. Justly to discriminate, firmly to establish, wisely to prescribe, and honestly to award. These… — William Gilmore Simms Copy Share
