The laws of a nation form the most instructive portion of its history

The distinctions of personal merit and influence, so conspicuous in a republic, so feeble and obscure under a monarchy, were abolished by the despotism of the emperors; who substituted in their room a severe subordination of rank and office, from the titled slaves who were seated on the steps of the throne, to the meanest instruments of arbitrary power.

Let us read with method, and propose to ourselves an end to which our studies may point. The use of reading is to aid us in thinking.

Feeble and timid minds . . . consider the use of dilatory and ambiguous measures as the most admirable efforts of consummate prudence.

It is the common calamity of old age to lose whatever might have rendered it desirable.

There exists in human nature a strong propensity to depreciate the advantages, and to magnify the evils, of the present times.

I never make the mistake of arguing with people for whose opinions I have no respect.