The further we advance in knowledge, the more simplicity shall we discover in those primary rules that regulate all the apparently endless, complicated, and multiform operations of the Godhead.

Flattery is often a traffic of mutual meanness, where although both parties intend deception, neither are deceived.

Human foresight often leaves its proudest possessor only a choice of evils.

There are three kinds of power,--wealth, strength, and talent; but as old age always weakens, often destroys, the two latter, the aged are induced to cling with the greater avidity to the former.

An act by which we make one friend and one enemy is a losing game; because revenge is a much stronger principle than gratitude

There are three kinds of praise, that which we yield, that which we lend, and that which we pay. We yield it to the powerful from fear, we lend it to the weak from interest, and we pay it to the deserving from gratitude.

Time ... advances like the slowest tide, but retreats like the swiftest torrent.