The art of declamation has been sinking in value from the moment that speakers were foolish enough to publish, and hearers wise enough to read.

That writer does the most who gives his reader the most knowledge and takes from him the least time.

We must suit the flattery to the mind and taste of the recipient. We do not put essences into hogsheads, nor porter into phials. Delicate minds may be disgusted by compliments that would please a grosser intellect; as some fine ladies who would be shocked at the idea of a dram will not refuse a liqueur.

Anger is practical awkwardness.

Logic is a large drawer, containing some useful instruments, and many more that are superfluous. A wise man will look into it for two purposes, to avail himself of those instruments that are really useful, and to admire the ingenuity with which those that are not so, are assorted and arranged.

Self-denial is often the sacrifice of one sort of self-love for another.

Light, whether it be material or moral, is the best reformer.