Some read to think, these are rare; some to write, these are common; and some read to talk, and these form the great majority.

Eloquence, to produce her full effect, should start from the head of the orator, as Pallas from the brain of Jove, completely armed and equipped. Diffidence, therefore, which is so able a mentor to the writer, would prove a dangerous counsellor for the orator.

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

Villainy that is vigilant will be an overmatch for virtue, if she slumber at her post.

That is fine benevolence, finely executed, which, like the Nile, comes from hidden sources.

The victims of ennui paralyze all the grosser feelings by excess, and torpify all the finer by disuse and inactivity. Disgusted with this world, and indifferent about another, they at last lay violent hands upon themselves, and assume no small credit for the sang froid with which they meet death. But, alas! such beings can scarcely be said to die, for they have never truly lived.

Philosophy is a bully that talks loud when the danger is at a distant; but, the moment she is pressed hard by an enemy, she is nowhere to be found and leaves the brunt of the battle to be fought by her steady, humble comrade, religion.