We relate all our afflictions more frequently than we do our pleasures.

To whom, then, must I dedicate my wonderful, surprising and interesting adventures? to whom dare I reveal my private opinion of my nearest relations? the secret thoughts of my dearest friends? my own hopes, fears, reflections and dislikes? Nobody!

... it's vastly more irksome to give up one's own way, than to hear a few impertinent remarks.

Never shall I recollect the occasion he gave me of displeasure, without feeling it renewed.

A youthful mind is seldom totally free from ambition; to curb that, is the first step to contentment, since to diminish expectation is to increase enjoyment.

Concealment is the foe of tranquility.

I cannot be much pleased without an appearance of truth; at least of possibility I wish the history to be natural though the sentiments are refined; and the characters to be probable, though their behaviour is excelling