There is good government when those who are near are made happy, and when those who are afar are attracted.

There are some with whom we may study in common, but we shall find them unable to go along with us to principles. Perhaps we may go on with them to principles, but we shall find them unable to get established in those along with us. Or if we may get so established along with them, we shall find them unable to weigh occurring events along with us.

When superiors are fond of showing their humanity, inferiors try to outstrip one another in their practice of it.

Do unto others what you want done unto you.

The hardest thing of all is to find a black cat in a dark room, especially if there is no cat.

There are three sorts of pleasures which are advantageous, and three which are injurious. Finding pleasure in the discriminating study of ceremonies and music, finding pleasure in discussing the good points in the conduct of others, and finding pleasure in having many wise friends, these are advantageous. But finding pleasure in profligate enjoyments, finding pleasure in idle gadding about, and finding pleasure in feasting, these are injurious.

The wheel of fortune turns round incessantly, and who can say to himself, I shall today be uppermost.