The vain, inconstant, rebellious disposition of the people [of Armorica], was incompatible either with freedom or servitude.

I was never less alone than when by myself.

The Romans, who so coolly and so concisely mention the acts of justice which were exercised by the legions, reserve their compassion and their eloquence for their own sufferings, when the provinces were invaded and desolated by the arms of the successful Barbarians.

It has always been my practice to cast a long paragraph in a single mould, to try it by my ear, to deposit it in my memory, but to suspend the action of the pen till I had given the last polish to my work.

To a lover of books the shops and sales in London present irresistible temptations.

Every event, or appearance, or accident, which seems to deviate from the ordinary course of nature has been rashly ascribed to the immediate action of the Deity.

The Roman government appeared every day less formidable to its enemies, more odious and oppressive to its subjects.