Fiction is no longer a mere amusement; but transcendent genius, accommodating itself to the character of the age, has seized upon this province of literature, and turned fiction from a toy into a mighty engine.—Channing.
The best portraits are those in which there is a slight mixture of caricature; and we are not aware that the best histories are not those in which a little of the exaggeration of fictitious narrative is judiciously employed. Something is lost in accuracy; but much is gained in effect. The fainter lines are neglected; but the great characteristic features are imprinted on the mind forever.—Macaulay.
Those who delight in the study of human nature may improve in the knowledge of it, and in the profitable application of that knowledge, by the perusal of such fictions as those before us [Jane Austen's Novels].—Archbishop Whately.
Firmness.—The greatest firmness is the greatest mercy.—Longfellow.
Stand firm and immovable as an anvil when it is beaten upon.—St. Ignatius.
Flattery.—The art of flatterers is to take advantage of the foibles of the great, to foster their errors, and never to give advice which may annoy.—Molière.
He does me double wrong that wounds me with the flatteries of his tongue.—Shakespeare.
Flattery is often a traffic of mutual meanness, where, although both parties intend deception, neither are deceived, since words that cost little are exchanged for hopes that cost less.—Colton.
The most dangerous of all flattery is the inferiority of those about us.—Madame Swetchine.
Though flattery blossoms like friendship, yet there is a great difference in the fruit.—Socrates.