“Historians are not by and large inclined to supernatural explanations, but they are addicted to a near equivalent - 'inevitability'.”

“The king greeted the document (the Collectanea) not so much as a drowning man greets a straw but as he might a rescue party from outer space.”

“Trials are a part of life, but there is value in sometimes experiencing adversity which will test (and so strengthen) our faith and also build an understanding of God and ourselves.”

“Captivating to men, Anne was also sharp, assertive, subtle, calculating, vindictive, a power dresser and a power player, perhaps a figure to be more admired than liked.”

“Historians are to nationalism what poppy-growers in Pakistan are to heroin-addicts: we supply the essential raw material for the market.”

“Vagueness is at times an indication of nearness to perfect truth.”

“Ultimately one has to pity these poor souls who know every secret about writing, directing, designing, producing, and acting but are stuck in those miserable day jobs writing reviews. Will somebody help them, please?”