When we feel a strong desire to thrust our advice upon others, it is usually because we suspect their weakness; but we ought rather to suspect our own.

To admit that there is any such thing as chance, in the common acceptation of the term, would be to attempt to establish a power independent of God.

The most notorious swindler has not assumed so many names as self-love, nor is so much ashamed of his own. She calls herself patriotism, when at the same time she is rejoicing at just as much calamity to her native country as will introduce herself into power, and expel her rivals.

Logic and metaphysics make use of more tools than all the rest of the sciences put together, and do the least work.

It is a common observation that any fool can get money; but they are not wise that think so.

There are two modes of establishing our reputation; to be praised by honest men, and to be abused by rogues.

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.