Meet success like a gentleman and disaster like a man. F E Smith
The world continues to offer glittering prizes to those who have stout hearts and sharp swords. F E Smith
We have the highest authority for believing that the meek shall inherit the earth; though I have never found any particular corroboration of this aphorism in the records of Somerset House. F E Smith
Nature has no cure for this sort of madness, though I have known a legacy from a rich relative work wonders. F E Smith (on Bolshevism)
He has devoted the best years of his life to preparing his impromptu speeches. F E Smith (on Churchill)
Judge: I have read your case, Mr Smith, and I am no wiser now than I was when I started.
Smith: Possibly not, My Lord, but much better informed.
Judge: Are you trying to show contempt for this court, Mr Smith?
Smith: No, My Lord. I am attempting to conceal it.
Judge: Have you ever heard of a saying by Bacon – the great Bacon – that youth and discretion are ill-wedded companions?
Smith: Yes, I have. And have you ever heard of a saying of Bacon – the great Bacon – that a much-talking judge is like an ill-tuned cymbal?
Judge: You are extremely offensive, young man!
Smith: As a matter of fact we both are; but I am trying to be, and you can’t help it.
Judge: Mr Smith, you must not direct the jury. What do you suppose I am on the bench for?
Smith: It is not for me, your honour, to attempt to fathom the inscrutable workings of Providence.
Smith to witness: So, you were as drunk as a judge?
Judge (interjecting): You mean as drunk as a lord?
Smith: Yes, My Lord.
Master of the Rolls: Really, Mr Smith, do give this Court credit for some little intelligence.
Smith: That is the mistake I made in the Court below, My Lord.