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.

To despise riches, may, indeed, be philosophic, but to dispense them worthily, must surely be more beneficial to mankind.

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

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

When young people are too rigidly sequestered from [the world], their lively and romantic imaginations paint it to them as a paradise of which they have been beguiled; but when they are shown it properly, and in due time, they see it such as it really is, equally shared by pain and pleasure, hope and disappointment.

Misery is a guest that we are glad to part with, however certain of her speedy return.

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