Without an acquaintance with the rules of propriety, it is impossible for the character to be established

When a nation or family is about to flourish, there are sure to be happy omens; and when it is about to perish, there are sure to be unlucky omens.

Looking at small advantages prevents great affairs from being accomplished.

Only the wisest and stupidest of men never change.

There is only one thing in life which never changes, and it is change.

I have never seen a man as fond of virtue as of women.

It is true that we shall not be able to reach perfection, but in our struggle toward it we shall strengthen our characters and give stability to our ideas, so that, whilst ever advancing calmly in the same direction, we shall be rendered capable of applying the faculties with which we have been gifted to the best possible account.