We own almost all our knowledge not to those who have agreed but to those who have differed.

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.

They that are loudest in their threats are the weakest in the execution of them. It is probable that he who is killed by lightning hears no noise; but the thunder-clap which follows, and which most alarms the ignorant, is the surest proof of their safety.

He that openly tells, his friends all that he thinks of them, must expect that they will secretly tell his enemies much that they do not think of him.

If you cannot inspire a woman with love of you, fill her above the brim with love of herself; all that runs over will be yours.

There are some men who are fortune's favorites, and who, like cats, light forever on their legs.

In all places, and in all times, those religionists who have believed too much have been more inclined to violence and persecution than those who have believed too little.