To be satisfied with the acquittal of the world, though accompanied with the secret condemnation of conscience, this is the mark of a little mind; but it requires a soul of no common stamp to be satisfied with its own acquittal, and to despise the condemnation of the world.

He that has never known adversity is but half acquainted with others, or with himself.

Riches may enable us to confer favors, but to confer them with propriety and grace requires a something that riches cannot give.

It has been shrewdly said, that when, men abuse us we should suspect ourselves, and when they praise us, them. It is a rare instance of virtue to despise which censure which we do not deserve; and still more rare to despise praise which we do.

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.

It is far better to borrow experience than to buy it.

That is fine benevolence, finely executed, which, like the Nile, comes from hidden sources.