Neither can we admit that definition of genius that some would propose--"a power to accomplish all that we undertake;" for we might multiply examples to prove that this definition of genius contains more than the thing defined. Cicero failed in poetry, Pope in painting, Addison in oratory; yet it would be harsh to deny genius to these men.

We injure mysteries, which are matters of faith, by any attempt at explanation in order to make them matters of reason. Could they be explained, they would cease to be mysteries; and it has been well said that a thing is not necessarily against reason because it happens to be above it.

Our very best friends have a tincture of jealousy even in their friendship; and when they hear us praised by others, will ascribe it to sinister and interested motives if they can.

No company is preferable to bad. We are more apt to catch the vices of others than virtues, as disease is far more contagious than health.

Sometimes the greatest adversities turn out to be the greatest blessings.

Error, when she retraces her steps, has farther to go before she can arrive at truth than ignorance.

We cannot think too highly of our nature, nor too humbly of ourselves.