Life in every shape should be precious to us.

It is the gift of God, and wasting it needlessly is a crime against him.

Honest poverty is always hopeful in the prospective. Strength of muscle and of mind, combined with a cheerful heart, from a holy alliance, which causes the future to brighten, before the steadfast eye of trust.

– Published in the Stark County News, Toulon, Illinois, Thursday, August, 11, 1864