Some volumes against Deism fell into my hands ... they produced an effect precisely the reverse to what was intended by the writers; for the arguments of the Deists, which were cited in order to be refuted, appeared to me much more forcibly than the refutation itself; in a word, I soon became a thorough Deist.

Genius is nothing but a greater aptitude for patience.

I resolve to speak ill of no man whatever, not even in a matter of truth; but rather by some means excuse the faults I hear charged upon others, and upon proper occasions speak all the good I know of everybody.

In order to be happy you need a good dog, a good woman, and ready money.

A virtuous and industrious people may be cheaply governed.

To lengthen thy life, lessen thy meals.

Tricks and treachery are the practice of fools, that don't have brains enough to be honest.