Yet the civilians have always respected the natural right of a citizen to dispose of his life . . .

The inactivity of a conqueror betrays the loss of strength and blood . . .

Since the primitive times, the wealth of the popes was exposed to envy, their powers to opposition, and their persons to violence.

The sectaries of a persecuted religion, depressed by fear, animated with resentment, and perhaps heated by enthusiasm, are seldom in a proper temper of mind calmly to investigate, or candidly to appreciate, the motives of their enemies, which often escape the impartial and discerning view even of those who are placed at a secure distance from the flames of persecution.

That public virtue which among the ancients was denominated patriotism, is derived from a strong sense of our own interest in the preservation and prosperity of the free government of which we are members. Such a sentiment, which had rendered the legions of the republic almost invincible, could make but a very feeble impression on the mercenary servants of a despotic prince; and it became necessary to supply that defect by other motives, of a different, but not less forcible nature; honour and religion.

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

Rational confidence [is] the just result of knowledge and experience.