He became one of the most noted mathematicians in the United States, and also gained an enviable reputation in other departments of knowledge.

John Hunter, like Napoleon, allowed himself but four hours of sleep.

It took Professor Owen ten years to arrange and classify the specimens in Comparative Anatomy, over twenty-four thousand in number, which Hunter's industry had collected.

What a record for a boy who began his studies while working as a carpenter! John Q.Adams complained bitterly when robbed of his time by those who had no right to it.

An Italian scholar put over his door the inscription: "Whoever tarries here must join in my labors." Carlyle, Tennyson, Browning, and Dickens signed a remonstrance against organ-grinders who disturbed their work.
Many of the greatest men of history earned their fame outside of their regular occupations in odd bits of time which most people squander.
Spenser made his reputation in his spare time while Secretary to the Lord Deputy of Ireland.