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.

The true motives of our actions, like the real pipes of an organ, are usually concealed; but the gilded and hollow pretext is pompously placed in the front for show.

We should have all our communications with men, as in the presence of God; and with God, as in the presence of men.

We should choose our books as we would our companions, for their sterling and intrinsic merit.

Secrecy is the soul of all great designs.

Purity lives and derives its life solely from the Spirit of God.

He that studies books alone, will know how things ought to be; and he that studies men, will know how things are.