If I prove extravagant, I ...

If I prove extravagant, I shall be more so from ignorance than willfulness. I am not wholly insensible to the pleasures of the world, therefore shall not be governed entirely by necessity; but I flatter myself, at least, in being able to restrain their gratification within due bonds.
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 Washington Allston

Quotes from the same author

I have no ambition to shine beyond my abilities.
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 Washington Allston
It is my greatest misfortune to be too lazy, and by the few mortifications I have already set with on that account I predict many evils in my future life. I have always the inclination to do what I ought; but by continually procrastinating for tomorrow the business of today, I insensibly delay, until at the end of one month I find myself in the same place as when I began it.
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 Washington Allston
The only competition worthy of a wise man is with himself.
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 Washington Allston