Much of reputation depends on the period in which it rises. The Italians
proverbially observe that one half of fame depends on that cause. In
dark periods, when talents appear they shine like the sun through a
small hole in the window-shutter. The strong beam dazzles amid the
surrounding gloom. Open the shutter, and the general diffusion of light
attracts no notice.--_Walpole._
Fame confers a rank above that of gentleman and of kings. As soon as she
issues her patent of nobility, it matters not a straw whether the
recipient be the son of a Bourbon or of a
tallow-chandler.--_Bulwer-Lytton._