Those who mistake their good luck for their merit are inevitably bound for disaster.

The English soldier was probably the worst-treated soldier in Europe, and judging from the English casualty rates during the Napoleonic wars, English generals were more lavish with their soldiers' lives than were their French and German colleagues.

We've had bad luck with children; they've all grown up

Beware what you wish for, unless you have the grace to hope that your luck can be shared.

We've had bad luck with our kids - they've all grown up.

O, once in each man's life, at least, Good luck knocks at his door; And wit to seize the flitting guest Need never hunger more. But while the loitering idler waits Good luck beside his fire, The bold heart storms at fortune's gates, And conquers its desire.