We know the effects of many things, but the cause of few; experience, therefore, is a surer guide than imagination, and inquiry than conjecture.

There are two modes of establishing our reputation; to be praised by honest men, and to be abused by rogues.

Many books owe their success to the good memories of their authors and the bad memories of their readers.

Reply to wit with gravity, and to gravity with wit.

Repartee is perfect when it effects its purpose with a double edge. It is the highest order of wit, as it indicates the coolest yet quickest exercise of genius, at a moment when the passions are roused.

Shakespeare, Butler and Bacon have rendered it extremely difficult for all who come after them to be sublime, witty or profound.

It is an easy and vulgar thing to please the mob, and no very arduous task to astonish them.