Sorry am I to say, I have often observed that I have performed worst when I most ardently wished to do better than ever.

customary interruptions are not only gratifying and cheering, but they are also really necessary in order to gain breath and voice to carry one on through some violent exertions though after all it must be confessed that silence is the most flattering applause an Actor can receive.

. . . I believe one half of the world is born for the convenience of the other half . . .

The awful consciousness that one is the sole object of attention to that immense space, lined as it were with human intellect from top to bottom, and on all side round, may be perhaps be imagined but can not be described.

. . . I know, by sad experience, with what difficulty a mind, weakened by long and uninterrupted suffering, admits hope, much less assurance.