Fashion is the veriest goddess of semblance and of shade; to be happy is of far less consequence to her worshippers than to appear so; even pleasure itself they sacrifice to parade, and enjoyment to ostentation.

There are some frauds so well conducted that it would be stupidity not to be deceived by them.

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

There is nothing more imprudent than excessive prudence.

It is almost as difficult to make a man unlearn his errors as his knowledge.

A public debt is a kind of anchor in the storm; but if the anchor be too heavy for the vessel, she will be sunk by that very weight which was intended for her preservation.

The firmest of friendships have been formed in mutual adversity, as iron is most strongly united by the fiercest flame.