“It seems wisest to assume the worst from the beginning...and let anything better come as a surprise.”

“We are of opinion that instead of letting books grow moldy behind an iron grating, far from the vulgar gaze, it is better to let them wear out by being read.”

“Conseil: If that is the case, this dugong may well be the last of its race, and perhaps it would be better to spare it, in the interest of science.Ned Land: Perhaps it will be better to hunt it, in the interest of the kitchen.”

“I have been, am, in his service; I have seen his generosity and goodness; and I will never betray him-not for all the gold in the world. I have come from a village where they don't eat that kind of bread.”

“Savages!' he echoed, ironically. 'You set foot on one of the shores of this globe, professor, and you’re surprised to find savages? Where aren’t there savages? Besides, are they any worse than others, these whom you call savages?”

“Steam seems to have killed all gratitude in the hearts of sailors.”

“Anything one man can imagine, other men can make real.”