It is a curious paradox that precisely in proportion to our own intellectual weakness will be our credulity, to those mysterious powers assumed by others; and in those regions of darkness and ignorance where man cannot effect even those things that are within the power of man, there we shall ever find that a blind belief in feats that are far beyond those powers has taken the deepest root in the minds of the deceived, and produced the richest harvest to the knavery of the deceiver.

Custom looks to things that are past, and fashion to things that are present, but both of them are somewhat purblind as to things that are to come.

Those graces which from their presumed facility encourage all to attempt an imitation of them, are usually the most inimitable.

Bed is a bundle of paradoxes: we go to it with reluctance, yet we quit it with regret.

Examinations are formidable even to the best prepared, for the greatest fool may ask more than the wisest man can answer.

The science of mathematics performs more than it promises, but the science of metaphysics promises more than it performs.

Unlike the sun, intellectual luminaries shine brightest after they set.