Generally speaking, there is more wit than talent in the world. Society swarms with witty people who lack talent.

There is nothing so unready as readiness of wit.

The subtle sauce of malice is often indulged in by maidens of uncertain age, over their tea.

Vices are often habits rather than passions.

Ideas are a capital that bears interest only in the hands of talent.

The most civilized people are as near to barbarism as the most polished steel is to rust. Nations, like metals, have only a superficial brilliancy.

Indolence and stupidity are first cousins.