However great an evil immorality may be, we must not forget that it is not without its beneficial consequences. It is only through extremes that men can arrive at the middle path of wisdom and virtue. – Wilhelm von Humboldt

It may be assumed as an axiom that Providence has never gifted any political party with all of political wisdom or blinded it with all of political folly. – John George Nicolay

Doubt is the vestibule through which all must pass before they can enter into the temple of wisdom. – Charles Caleb Colton