I must learn to use words as counters, not as coins.

I need not disbelieve what I say, but I must not speak of anything to which I attach value.

I perceive that to do this is an art and a means of defence from invasion.
But I, on the contrary, become interested, as you have just seen.

I forget that I am only playing a game, and I rush into a subject like a bull into a china-shop, and knock about all the crockery until--as I am not opposed by my native pitchfork--I suddenly return to my senses, and discover that I have mistaken a game for real earnest." "We were all in earnest five minutes ago," said Hugh; "at least, I was.
I could not bear to hear Miss Gresley patronized by all these failures and amateurs.

But, unless I am very much mistaken, you will find several pitchforks laid up for you in the drawing-room." "I don't mean to smash any more china," said Rachel.
Another wavelet skimmed in and broke a little further up the sand.