If Satan ever laughs, it must be at hypocrites; they are the greatest dupes he has.

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.

It is with antiquity as with ancestry, nations are proud of the one, and individuals of the other; but if they are nothing in themselves, that which is their pride ought to be their humiliation.

If merited, no courage can stand against its just indignation.

Total freedom from error is what none of us will allow to our neighbors; however we may be inclined to flirt a little with such spotless perfection ourselves.

No two things differ more than hurry and despatch. Hurry is the mark of a weak mind; despatch of a strong one.

Fashions smile has given wit to dullness and grace to deformity, and has brought everything into vogue, by turns, but virtue.