Let every man consider virtue as what devolves on himself. He may not yield the performance of it even to his teacher.

In dealing with the dead, if we treat them as if they were entirely dead, that would show a want of affection and should not be done; or, if we treat them as if they were entirely alive, that would show a want of wisdom and should not be done.

Virtuous people often revenge themselves for the constraints to which they submit by the boredom which they inspire.

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.

The highest kind of man is the one who does before talking and practices what he professes.

Can there be a love which does not make demands on its object?

You must find time for reading, or surrender yourself to self-chosen ignorance.