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.

Wit in women is a jewel, which, unlike all others, borrows lustre from its setting, rather than bestows it; since nothing is so easy as to fancy a very beautiful woman extremely witty.

There are some frauds so well conducted that it would be stupidity not to be deceived by them.

It is far better to borrow experience than to buy it.

It is seldom that statesmen have the option of choosing between a good and an evil.

Ambition is to the mind what the cap is to the falcon; it blinds us first, and then compels us to tower by reason of our blindness.

With the offspring of genius, the law of parturition is reversed; the throes are in the conception, the pleasure in the birth.