Eloquent statements are like the seeds of beautiful flowers: in the fertile garden of the mind they grow and blossom into inspiration, reflection, and rewarding conversations. The Victorian era was a time when people expressed themselves skillfully and beautifully, and the writings of that age are a rich legacy from the past. This little volume is a collection of sentiments on an array of subjects, among them:Books: "A minute's reading often provokes a day's thinking." -W.H. Venable, 1872."Books are those faithful mirrors that reflect to our minds the minds of sages and heroes. A good book is the precious life-blood of a master spirit treasured up on a purpose for a life beyond." -J.F. Spaunhurst, 1896.Writing: "Every new book must have, in the consciousness of its author, a private history that, like the mysteries of romance, would if unfolded have an interest for the reader, and by unveiling the inner life of the volume show its character and tendencies."-Sarah Josepha Hale, 1866.Language: "The [Ancient] Greeks said that barbarians did not speak, they twittered." -Charles DeKay, 1898.The Sexes: "It is better for men, it is better for women, that each somewhat idealize the other." -Gail Hamilton, 1872. Love: "True love is that which ennobles the personality, fortifies the heart, and sanctifies the existence. And the being we love must not be mysterious and sphinx-like, but clear and limpid as a diamond; so that admiration and attachment may grow with knowledge." -Henry Frédéric Amiel, 1880. Optimism: "Refuse to dwell among shadows when there is so much sunshine in the world." -Hester M. Poole, 1888.History: "The past is our wisest and best instructor. In its dim and shadowy outlines we may, if we will, discern in some measure those elements of wisdom which should guide the present and secure the welfare of the future." -Frederick Douglass, 1889.Work: "Make the most of your brain and your eyes, and let no one dare tell you that you are devoting yourself to a low sphere of action." -Anonymous, late 19th-centuryKeep this book in a place where its wisdom can refresh your spare moments, or buy a copy for a friend to brighten their day. May the flowers of thought thus planted bear rich fruit for you.