It is impossible to reduce, or, at least, to hold a distant country against the wishes and efforts of its inhabitants.

Books are those faithful mirrors that reflect to our mind the minds of sages and heroes.

In the second century of the Christian era, the Empire of Rome comprehended the fairest part of the earth, and the most civilised portion of mankind. The frontiers of that extensive monarchy were guarded by ancient renown and disciplined valour. The gentle but powerful influence of laws and manners had gradually cemented the union of the provinces. Their peaceful inhabitants enjoyed and abused the advantages of wealth and luxury.

The history of empires is the record of human misery; the history of the sciences is that of the greatness and happiness of mankind.

It is impossible to reduce, or, at least, to hold a distant country against the wishes and efforts of its inhabitants.

The German huts, open on every side to the eye of indiscretion or jealousy, were a better safeguard of conjugal fidelity than the walls, the bolts, and the eunuchs of a persian harem. To this reason, another may be added of a more honourable nature. The Germans treated their women with esteem and confidence, consulted them on every occasion of importance, and fondly believed that in their breasts resided a sanctity and wisdom more than human.

[The monks'] minds were inaccessible to reason or mercy . . .