The fact is I am growing old too fast, alas! I feel it, and yet work I will, and may God grant me life to see the last plate of my mammoth work finished.

I feel I am strange to all but the birds of America.

I am growing old, and my future, so to speak, is already behind me.

I wouldn't be young again even if it were possible, but I am not going to pretend that growing old is all sweetness and light.

Surrounded by all the members of my dear family, enjoying the affection of numerous friends, who have never abandoned me, and possessing a sufficient share of all that contributes to make life agreeable, I lift my grateful eyes towards the Supreme Being and feel that I am happy.

I am getting old, so I really don't like clocks.