Washington Irving

"A kind heart is a fountain of gladness, making everything in its vicinity freshen into smiles. "

"An inexhaustible good nature is one of the most precious gifts of heaven, spreading itself like oil over the troubled sea of thought, and keeping the mind smooth and equable in the roughest weather. "

"Christmas is a season for kindling the fire for hospitality in the hall, the genial flame of charity in the heart. "

"Great minds have purposes, little minds have wishes. "

"I am always at a loss to know how much to believe of my own stories. "

"Some minds seem almost to create themselves, springing up under every disadvantage and working their solitary but irresistible way throughout a thousand obstacles. "

"There is a healthful hardiness about real dignity that never dreads contact and communion with others, however humble. "