Johann Kaspar Lavater Silence Quotations

He knows not how to speak who cannot be silent; still less how to act with vigor and decision. Who hastens to the end is silent; loudness is impotence.

Who, in the midst of just provocation to anger, instantly finds the fit word which settles all around him in silence is more than wise or just; he is, were he a beggar, of more than royal blood, he is of celestial descent.

A gift--its kind, its value and appearance; the silence or the pomp that attends it; the style in which it reaches you--may decide the dignity or vulgarity of the giver.

He who, silent, loves to be with us - he who loves us in our silence - has touched one of the keys that ravish hearts.

Not every one who has the gift of speech understands the value of silence.