Gravity is of the very essence of imposture; it does not only mistake other things, but is apt perpetually almost to mistake itself.

They who are great talkers in company have never been any talkers by themselves, nor used to private discussions of our home regimen.

The most natural beauty in the world is honesty and moral truth. For all beauty is truth. True features make the beauty of the face; true proportions, the beauty of architecture; true measures, the beauty of harmony and music.

Pedantry and bigotry are millstones, able to sink the best book which carries the least part of their dead weight. The temper of the pedagogue suits not with the age; and the world, however it may be taught, will not be tutored.

When men are easy in themselves, they let others remain so.

Nothing is more ridiculous than ridicule.

Wit is its own remedy. Liberty and commerce bring it to its true standard. The only danger is the laying an embargo. The same thing happens here as in the case of trade: impositions and restrictions reduce it to a low ebb; nothing is so advantageous to it as a free port.