441. Ability; Diligence; Perseverance;
Skill
"Few things are impossible to diligence and skill."
Johnson: Rasselas [Imlac]
Note: If you haven't read it yet, please read this note of caution regarding quotes from
Rasselas.
Link
1,213. Ability; Ambition
"It is, I believe, a very just observation that men's ambition
is, generally, proportioned to their capacity. Providence seldom
sends any into the world with an inclination to attempt great
things, who have not abilities, likewise, to perform them."
Johnson: Boerhaave
Link
1,282. Ability; Self-Confidence
"It generally happens that assurance keeps an even pace with
ability; and fear of miscarriage, which hinders our first
attempts, is gradually dissipated as our skill advances towards
certainty of success."
Johnson: Rambler #159 (September 24, 1751)
Link
