There is a form of eminence ...

There is a form of eminence which does not depend on fate; it is an air which sets us apart and seems to prtend great things; it is the value which we unconsciously attach to ourselves; it is the quality which wins us deference of others; more than birth, position, or ability, it gives us ascendance.
There is a form of eminence which does not depend on fate; it is an air which sets us apart and seems to prtend great things; it is the value which we unconsciously attach to ourselves; it is the quality which wins us deference of others; more than birth, position, or ability, it gives us ascendance.

Quotes from the same author

A true friend is the greatest of all blessings, and that which we take the least care of all to acquire.
In friendship as well as love, ignorance very often contributes more to our happiness than knowledge.
A true friend is the most precious of all possessions and the one we take the least thought about acquiring.
He is a truly virtuous man who wishes always to be open to the observation of honest men.
There are no events so disastrous that adroit men do not draw some advantage from them, nor any so fortunate that the imprudent cannot turn to their own prejudice.