You must not expect much friendliness from a John Bull who does not see his way to get something out of you. On the other hand, for learning commerce, London is without exception the best school.

Georgina Meinertzhagen (1850-1914)

I thought it was possible for a city clerk to be a gentleman.

George Grossmith (1847-1912)

In the city of London . . . he had never, in the whole course of his life, found above three or four whom he could call throughly honest.

Tobias Smollett (1721-1771)

London is the greatest show on Earth, for never have so many human characters been gathered together at one place. Here, in a day, you see the world.

Laurie Lee (1914-1997)

Ah, London! London! Our delight, / Great flower that opens but at night, / Great City of the midnight sun, / Whose day begins when day is done.

Richard La Gallienne (1866-1947)