In old age the consolation of hope is reserved for the tenderness of parents, who commence a new life in their children, the faith of enthusiasts, who sing hallelujahs above the clouds; and the vanity of authors, who presume the immortality of their name and writings.

Language is the leading principle which unites or separates the tribes of mankind.

But the power of instruction is seldom of much efficacy, except in those happy dispositions where it is almost superfluous.

The most worthless of mankind are not afraid to condemn in others the same disorders which they allow in themselves; and can readily discover some nice difference in age, character, or station, to justify the partial distinction.

The love of study, a passion which derives fresh vigor from enjoyment, supplies each day, each hour, with a perpetual source of independent and rational pleasure.

History is indeed little more than the register of the crimes, follies, and misfortunes of mankind.

Flattery is a foolish suicide; she destroys herself with her own hands.