Judge not of actions by their mere effect; Dive to the center, and the cause detect. Great deeds from meanest springs may take their course, And smallest virtues from a mighty source.
Alexander PopeOld men, for the most part, are like old chronicles that give you dull but true accounts of times past, and are worth knowing only on that score.
Alexander PopeTrue Wit is Nature to advantage dress'd What oft was thought, but ne'er so well express'd; Something whose truth convinced at sight we find, That gives us back the image of our mind. As shades more sweetly recommend the light, So modest plainness sets off sprightly wit.
Alexander PopeMen must be taught as if you taught them not, and things unknown proposed as things forgot.
Alexander Pope