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

Some men who know that they are great are so very haughty withal and insufferable that their acquaintance discover their greatness only by the tax of humility which they are obliged to pay as the price of their friendship.

In most quarrels there is a fault on both sides. A quarrel may be compared to a spark, which cannot be produced without a flint, as well as steel. Either of them may hammer on wood forever; no fire will follow.

The brightest thunder-bolt is elicited from the darkest storm.

Words indeed are but the signs and counters of knowledge, and their currency should be strictly regulated by the capital which they represent.

The inheritance of a distinguished and noble name is a proud inheritance to him who lives worthily of it.

Liberty will not descend to a people; a people must raise themselves to liberty; it is a blessing that must be earned before it can be enjoyed.