Wars of opinion, as they have been the most destructive, are also the most disgraceful of conflicts.

From its very inaction, idleness ultimately becomes the most active cause of evil; as a palsy is more to be dreaded than a fever. The Turks have a proverb which says that the devil tempts all other men, but that idle men tempt the devil.

A coxcomb begins by determining that his own profession is the first; and he finishes by deciding that he is the first of profession.

Wars of opinion, as they have been the most destructive, are also the most disgraceful of conflicts.

Posthumous charities are the very essence of selfishness when bequeathed by those who, even alive, would part with nothing.

Love is an alliance of friendship and animalism; if the former predominates it is passion exalted and refined; if the latter, gross and sensual.

Avarice has ruined more souls than extravagance.