What is a man born for but to be a reformer, a remaker of what has been made, a denouncer read more

What is a man born for but to be a reformer, a remaker of what has been made, a denouncer of lies, a restorer of truth and good?

Every reform, however necessary, will by weak minds be carried to an excess which will itself need reforming.

Every reform, however necessary, will by weak minds be carried to an excess which will itself need reforming.

The church is always trying to get other people to reform; it might not be a bad idea to reform read more

The church is always trying to get other people to reform; it might not be a bad idea to reform itself.

All zeal for a reform, that gives offence
To peace and charity, is mere pretence.

All zeal for a reform, that gives offence
To peace and charity, is mere pretence.

Reform is born of need, not pity. No vital movement of the people has worked down, for good or evil; read more

Reform is born of need, not pity. No vital movement of the people has worked down, for good or evil; fermented, instead, carried up the heaving, cloggy mass.

Nothing so needs reforming as other people's habits.

Nothing so needs reforming as other people's habits.

One of the greatest delusions in the world is the hope that the evils in this world are to be read more

One of the greatest delusions in the world is the hope that the evils in this world are to be cured by legislation.

Every reformation must have its victims. You can't expect the fatted calf to share the enthusiasm of the angels over read more

Every reformation must have its victims. You can't expect the fatted calf to share the enthusiasm of the angels over the prodigal's return.

A conservative is someone who believes in reform. But not now.

A conservative is someone who believes in reform. But not now.