James Fisk

"Every scandal contains within it the seeds of a greater fortune for the observant."

"I have observed that desperation is often the father of invention and profit."

"The man who fears failure will never experience the exhilaration of true success."

"A moment of boldness can rewrite a lifetime of mediocrity."

"The railroad is not merely transportation; it is the nervous system of empire."

"I have learned that reputation is a currency more valuable than gold, until it is not."

"The clever man does not create opportunities; he recognizes them when others pass blindly by."

"A man without enemies has never attempted anything worthwhile."

"The public's trust is easily won and easily lost, like a fair-weather friend."

"I believe that life is a grand game for those with the nerve to play it."

"Every fortune contains within it the seeds of its own destruction for the careless."

"The greatest wisdom is knowing that wisdom itself has limitations."

"A man of honor in business is either naive or independently wealthy."

"I have found that the best investments are made in darkness and announced in daylight."

"The future rewards those who act decisively, regardless of the consequences."

"A cheerful demeanor has closed more deals than any contract ever could."

"Gold flows not to the righteous but to the resourceful and determined."

"I have observed that every man has his price, and most are cheaper than expected."

"The path of least resistance leads to oblivion; the path of greatest resistance leads to fortune."

"A friend should profit from your success as you profit from theirs."