The mountains are in labour, ...

The mountains are in labour, the birth will be an absurd little mouse.
The mountains are in labour, the birth will be an absurd little mouse.

Quotes from the same author

Adversity has the effect of eliciting talents, which in prosperous circumstances would have lain dormant.
A heart well prepared for adversity in bad times hopes, and in good times fears for a change in fortune.
Begin, be bold, and venture to be wise.
Men more quickly and more gladly recall what they deride than what they approve and esteem.
Help a man against his will and you do the same as murder him.