Walter Scott Quotations

Spur not an unbroken horse; put not your plowshare too deep into new land.

'Tis an old tale, and often told; But did my fate and wish agree, Ne'er had been read, in story old, Of maiden true betray'd for gold, That loved, or was avenged, like me!

Vengeance to God alone belongs; But, when I think of all my wrongs My blood is liquid flame!

When a man has not a good reason for doing a thing, he has one good reason for letting it alone.

Good wine needs neither bush nor preface to make it welcome. And they drank the red wine through the helmet barr'd.

The man who is deserving the name is the one whose thoughts and exertions are for others rather than for himself.

The willow which bends to the tempest often escapes better than the oak which resists it.

Respect was mingled with surprise, And the stern joy which warriors feel In foemen worthy of their steel.

Dear to me is my bonnie white steed; Oft has he helped me at pinch of need.

As good play for nothing, you know, as work for nothing.