We look for some reward of ...

We look for some reward of our endeavors and are disappointed that not success, not happiness, not even peace of conscience, crowns our ineffectual efforts to do well. Our frailties are invincible, our virtues barren; the battle goes sore against us to the going down of the sun.
We look for some reward of our endeavors and are disappointed that not success, not happiness, not even peace of conscience, crowns our ineffectual efforts to do well. Our frailties are invincible, our virtues barren; the battle goes sore against us to the going down of the sun.

Quotes from the same author

Most of our pocket wisdom is conceived for the use of mediocre people, to discourage them from ambitious attempts, and generally console them in their mediocrity.
A friend is a gift you give yourself.
Don't judge each day by the harvest you reap but by the seeds that you plant.
Marriage: A friendship recognized by the police.
There is no duty we so underrate as the duty of being happy. By being happy we sow anonymous benefits upon the world.