As the rays of the sun, notwithstanding their velocity, injure not the eye, by reason of their minuteness, so the attacks of envy, notwithstanding their number, ought not to wound our virtue by reason of their insignificance.

Constant success shows us but one side of the world. For as it surrounds us with friends who will tell us only our merits, so it silences those enemies from whom alone we can learn our defects.

Let those who would affect singularity with success first determine to be very virtuous, and they will be sure to be very singular.

In all societies, it is advisable to associate if possible with the highest; not that the highest are always the best, but because, if disgusted there, we can descend at any time; but if we begin with the lowest, to ascend is impossible.

Make the most of the day, by determining to spend it on two sorts of acquaintances only--those by whom something may be got, and those from whom something may be learned.

Moderation is the inseparable companion of wisdom, but with it genius has not even a nodding acquaintance.

The art of declamation has been sinking in value from the moment that speakers were foolish enough to publish, and hearers wise enough to read.