I have never known much good done by those who affected to trade for the public good.

The statesman who should attempt to direct private people in what manner they ought to employ their capitals would not only load himself with most unnecessary attention but assume an authority which could safely be trusted to no council and senate whatever, and which would nowhere be so dangerous as in the hands of man who have folly and presumption enough to fancy himself fit to exercise it.

The violence and injustice of the rulers of mankind is an ancient evil, for which, I am afraid, the nature of human affairs can scarce admit a remedy.

With the greater part of rich people, the chief enjoyment of riches consists in the parade of riches.

To feel much for others and little for ourselves, that to restrain our selfish, and to indulge our benevolent affections, constitutes the perfection of human nature.

The world neither ever saw, nor ever will see, a perfectly fair lottery.

Upstart greatness is everywhere less respected than ancient greatness.