Predominant opinions are generally the opinions of the generation that is vanishing.

As we retain but a faint remembrance of our felicity, it is but fair that the smartest stroke of sorrow should, if bitter, at least be brief.

Departure should be sudden.

We are now in want of an art to teach how books are to be read rather than to read them. Such an art is practicable.

The art of conversation is to be prompt without being stubborn, to refute without argument, and to clothe great matters in a motley garb.

Man is more powerful than matter.

There is no waste of time like making excuses.