There are two principles of established acceptance in morals; first, that self-interest is the mainspring of all of our actions, and secondly, that utility is the test of their value.

Theories are private property, but truth is common stock.

When millions applaud you seriously ask yourself what harm you have done; and when they disapprove you, what good.

Shining outward qualities, although they may excite first-rate expectations, are not unusually found to be the companions of second-rate abilities.

Ignorance is a blank sheet, on which we may write; but error is a scribbled one, on which we must first erase.

Forgiveness, that noblest of all self-denial, is a virtue which he alone who can practise in himself can willingly believe in another.

There are both dull correctness and piquant carelessness; it is needless to say which will command the most readers and have the most influence.