From the heart of a friend

by Unknown

Of all felicities, the most charming is that of a firm and gentle friendship. It sweetens all our cares, dispels our sorrows, and counsels us in all extremities. Nay, if there were no other comfort in it than the bare exercise of so generous a virtue, even for that single reason a man would not be without it; it is a sovereign antidote against all calamities—even against the fear of death itself.

—Seneca.

Of what shall a man be proud if he is not proud of his friends?

—Stevenson.

Old books, old wine, old nankin blue—

All things, in short, to which belong