As there are none so weak that we may venture to injure them with impunity, so there are none so low that they may not at some time be able to repay an obligation. Therefore, what benevolence would dictate, prudence would confirm.

When young, we trust ourselves too much, and we trust others too little when old. Rashness is the error of youth, timid caution of age. Manhood is the isthmus between the two extremes; the ripe and fertile season of action, when alone we can hope to find the head to contrive, united with the hand to execute.

If all seconds were as averse to duels as their principals, very little blood would be shed in that way.

It is seldom that statesmen have the option of choosing between a good and an evil.

We may anticipate bliss, but who ever drank of that enchanted cup unalloved?

The more gross the fraud the more glibly will it go down, and the more greedily be swallowed, since folly will always find faith where impostors will find imprudence.

Grant graciously what you cannot refuse safely and conciliate those you cannot conquer.