You have sensible women here [in England] but then, they are very devils--censorious, uncharitable, sarcastic--the women in Scotland have twice--thrice their freedom, with all their virtue--and are very conversable and agreeable--their educations are more finished.

This perpetual round of constrained civilities to persons quite indifferent to us, is the most provoking and tiresome thing in theworld, but it is unavoidable in a country town, where everybody is known.... 'Tis a most shocking and unworthy way of spending our precious irrecoverable time, to those who know not its value.

... there's nothing but quarreling with the women; it's my belief they like it better than victuals and drink.

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

Generosity without delicacy, like wit without judgment, generally gives as much pain as pleasure.

A little alarm now and then keeps life from stagnation.

But if the young are never tired of erring in conduct, neither are the older in erring of judgment.