Some men who know that they are great are so very haughty withal and insufferable that their acquaintance discover their greatness only by the tax of humility which they are obliged to pay as the price of their friendship.

To judge by the event is an error all commit: for in every instance courage, if crowned with success, is heroism; if clouded by defeat, temerity. When Nelson fought his battle in the Sound, it was the result alone that decided whether he was to kiss a hand at court or a rod at a court-martial.

The good opinion of our fellow men is the strongest, though not the purest motive to virtue.

Public charities and benevolent associations for the gratuitous relief of every species of distress, are peculiar to Christianity; no other system of civil or religious policy has originated them; they form its highest praise and characteristic feature.

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

The hate which we all bear with the most Christian patience is the hate of those who envy us.

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