There is something in the ardour and ingenousness of youth, which is particularly pleasing to the contemplation of an old man, if his feelings have not been entirely corroded by the world.

To a generous mind few circumstances are more afflicting than a discovery of perfidy in those whom we have trusted.

If the weak hand, that has recorded this tale, has, by its scenes, beguiled the mourner of one hour of sorrow, or, by its moral, taught him to sustain it - the effort, however humble, has not been vain, nor is the writer unrewarded.

I wish that all those, who on this night are not merry enough to speak before they think, may ever after be grave enough to think before they speak!

The passions are the seeds of vices as well as of virtues, from which either may spring, accordingly as they are nurtured. Unhappy they who have never been taught the art to govern them!

I tasted too what was called the sweet of revenge - but it was transient, it expired even with the object, that provoked it.

One act of beneficence, one act of real usefulness, is worth all the abstract sentiment in the world.