It is for the most part in our skill in manners, and in the observations of time and place and of decency in general, that what is called taste by way of distinction consists; and which is in reality no other than a more refined judgment.

The public interest requires doing today those things that men of intelligence and good will would wish, five or ten years hence, had been done.

History is a pact between the dead, the living, and the yet unborn.

To reach the height of our ambition is like trying to reach the rainbow; as we advance it recedes.

The science of constructing a commonwealth or renovating it, or reforming it, is...not to be taught a priori...That which in the first instance is prejudicial may be excellent in its remoter operation, and its excellence may rise even from the ill effects it produces in the beginning. The reverse also happens; and very plausible schemes, with very pleasing commencements, have often shameful and lamentable conclusions.

To read without reflecting is like eating without digesting.

Futurity is the great concern of mankind.