A little knowledge is a dangerous thing, but a little want of knowledge is also a dangerous thing. Fear is static that prevents me from hearing myself. An idea must not be condemned for being a little shy and incoherent; all new ideas are shy when introduced first among our old ones. We should have patience and see whether the incoherency is likely to wear off or to wear on, in which latter case the sooner we get rid of them the better. An open mind is all very well in its way, but it ought not to be so open that there is no keeping anything in or out of it. It should be capable of shutting its doors sometimes, or it may be found a little draughty. Because they did not see merit where they should have seen it, people, to express their regret, will go and leave a lot of money to the very people who will be the first to throw stones at the next person who has anything to say and finds a difficulty in getting a hearing. Conscience is thoroughly well-bred and soon leaves off talking to those who do not wish to hear it. Every man's work, whether it be literature or music or pictures or anything else, is always a portrait of himself, and the more he tries to conceal himself the more clearly will his character appear in spite of him. Everyone should keep a mental wastepaper basket, and the older he grows, the more things will he promptly consign to it. Opinions have vested interests just as men have. A friend who cannot at a pinch remember a thing or two that never happened is as bad as one who does not know how to forget. | 
