I never pretend to be so superior a being as to be above having and indulging a hobby horse [her journal writing], and while I keep mine within due bounds and limits, nobody, I flatter myself, would wish to deprive me of the poor animal: to be sure, he is not formed for labour, and is rather lame and weak, but then the dear creature is faithful, constant, and loving, and though he sometimes prances, would not kick anyone into the mire, or hurt a single soul for the world--and I would not part with him for one who could win the greatest prize that ever was won at any races.

Wealth per se I never too much valued, and my acquaintance with its possessors has by no means increased my veneration for it.

Money is the source of the greatest vice, and that nation which is most rich, is most wicked.

Far from having taken any positive step, I have not yet even fommed any resolution.

such is the effect of true politeness, that it banishes all restraint and embarassment.

No man is in love when he marries. He may have loved before; I have even heard he has sometimes loved after: but at the time never. There is something in the formalities of the matrimonial preparations that drive away all the little cupidons.

To a heart formed for friendship and affection the charms of solitude are very short-lived.