A Victorian Scrapbook

SECRETS OF COMFORT. – Though sometimes small evils, like invisible insects, inflict pains and a single hair may stop a vast machine, yet the chief secret of comfort lies in not suffering trifle to vex one, and in prudently cultivating an under growth of small pleasures, since very few great ones, alas! Are let on long leases.
– Sharp’s Essays.

The wisest and happiest man is he who, by constant attention of thought, discovers the greatest opportunity of doing good, and with ardent and animated resolution breaks through every opposition that he may improve these opportunities.
– Doddridge.

A DREADFUL CASE. – I have just received a letter from my old acquaintance -, who now resides in Liverpool, begging some assistance. He is not only in the depth of poverty, but disease has commenced its attacks. He began life with £8000, besides what he had with his wife. I was present when the last family estate was brought to the hammer. Inattention to business, and the other vices arising from indulgence in liquor, have produced this sad reverse of fortune, and what is worse, even now I see not the least signs of repentance or reformation.