In all societies, it is advisable to associate if possible with the highest; not that the highest are always the best, but because, if disgusted there, we can descend at any time; but if we begin with the lowest, to ascend is impossible.

None are so seldom found alone, and are so soon tired of their own company, as those coxcombs who are on the best terms with themselves.

We should have a glorious conflagration, if all who cannot put fire into their works would only consent to put their works into the fire.

He that is gone so far as to cut the claws of the lion, will not feel himself quite secure, until he has also drawn his teeth.

Theories are private property, but truth is common stock.

The seeds of repentance are sown in youth by pleasure, but the harvest is reaped in age by pain.

If the prodigal quits life in debt to others, the miser quits it still deeper in debt to himself.