True religion is the foundation of society. When that is once shaken by contempt, the whole fabric cannot be stable nor lasting.

Society can overlook murder, adultery or swindling; it never forgives preaching of a new gospel.

The ocean is an object of no small terror.

He who calls in the aid of an equal understanding doubles his own; and he who profits by a superior understanding raises his powers to a level with the height of the superior standing he unites with.

To give freedom is still more easy. It is not necessary to guide; it only requires to let go the rein. But to form a free government; that is, to temper together these opposite elements of liberty and restraint in one work, requires much thought, deep reflection, a sagacious, powerful, and combining mind.

This sort of people are so taken up with their theories about the rights of man that they have totally forgotten his nature.

Under the pressure of the cares and sorrows of our mortal condition, men have at all times, and in all countries, called in some physical aid to their moral consolations - wine, beer, opium, brandy, or tobacco.