"Magic has a logic, like algebra. Once you get to know it, it's easy. If this, then that. You write with a pencil, you don't make frog soup with it."

"All Librarians are Secret Masters of Severe Magic. Goes with the territory."

"Let me tell you something, kid," said Mrs. H of Boston and Beacon Hill. "Magic is just a word for what's left to the powerless once everyone else has eaten their fill."

"Music has more rules than math or magic and it's twice as dangerous as both or either."

"That's just the first part. What others call you, you become. It's a terrible magic that everyone can do — so do it. Call yourself what you wish to become."

"A Bank is but a college of Fiscal Magic."