“Owls are wise. They are careful and patient. Wisdom precludes boldness. That is why owls make poor heroes.”

“... for most practical purposes, Tarbean had two parts: Waterside and Hillside. Waterside is where people are poor. That makes them beggars, thieves and whores. Hillside is where people are rich. That makes them solicitors, politicians and courtesans.”

“It was the patient, cut-flower sound of a man who is waiting to die.”

“You are not wise enough to fear me as I should be feared.”

“Books are a poor substitute for female companionship, but they are easier to find.”

“I do this so you cannot help but hear. A wise man views a moonless night with fear.”

“There are three things all wise men fear: the sea in storm, a night with no moon, and the anger of a gentle man.”