The benevolent have the advantage of the envious, even in this present life; for the envious man is tormented not only by all the ill that befalls himself, but by all the good that happens to another; whereas the benevolent man is the better prepared to bear his own calamities unruffled, from the complacency and serenity he has secured from contemplating the prosperity of all around him.

A coxcomb begins by determining that his own profession is the first; and he finishes by deciding that he is the first of profession.

He that has energy enough to root out a vice should go further, and try to plant a virtue in its place.

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

My lowest days as a Christian have been more fulfilling and rewarding than all the days of glory in the White House.

None are so fond of secrets as those who do not mean to keep them; such persons covet secrets as a spendthrift covets money, for the purpose of circulation.

Our admiration of fine writing will always be in proportion to its real difficulty and its apparent ease.