The most ridiculous of all animals is a proud priest; he cannot use his own tools without cutting his own fingers.

We should choose our books as we would our companions, for their sterling and intrinsic merit.

Examinations are formidable even to the best prepared, for the greatest fool may ask more than the wisest man can answer.

Early rising not only gives us more life in the same number of years, but adds, likewise, to their number; and not only enables us to enjoy more of existence in the same time, but increases also the measure.

By paying our other debts, we are equal with all mankind; but in refusing to pay a debt of revenge, we are superior.

A thorough-paced antiquary not only remembers what all other people have thought proper to forget, but he also forgets what all other people think is proper to remember.

There is a holy love and a holy rage, and our best virtues never glow so brightly as when our passions are excited in the cause. Sloth, if it has prevented many crimes, has also smothered many virtues; and the best of us are better when roused.