Examinations are formidable even to the best prepared, for the greatest fool may ask more than the wisest man can answer.

When the frustration of my helplessness seemed greatest, I discovered God's grace was more than sufficient. And after my imprisonment, I could look back and see how God used my powerlessness for His purpose. What He has chosen for my most significant witness was not my triumphs or victories, but my defeat.

Philosophy is a goddess, whose head indeed is in heaven, but whose feet are upon earth; she attempts more than she accomplishes, and promises more than she performs.

There are many that despise half the world; but if there be any that despise the whole of it, it is because the other half despises them.

The three great apostles of practical atheism, that make converts without persecuting, and retain them without preaching, are wealth, health and power.

We must suit the flattery to the mind and taste of the recipient. We do not put essences into hogsheads, nor porter into phials. Delicate minds may be disgusted by compliments that would please a grosser intellect; as some fine ladies who would be shocked at the idea of a dram will not refuse a liqueur.

Imitation is the sincerest of flattery.