It may be observed of good writing, as of good blood, that it is much easier to say what it is composed of than to compose it.

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.

Nobility of birth does not always insure a corresponding unity of mind; if it did, it would always act as a stimulus to noble actions; but it sometimes acts as a clog rather than a spur.

He that has never known adversity is but half acquainted with others, or with himself.

The most zealous converters are always the most rancorous when they fail of producing conversion.

No disorders have employed so many quacks, as those that have no cure; and no sciences have exercised so many quills, as those that have no certainty.

No propagation or multiplication is more rapid that that of evil, unless it be checked; no growth more certain.