He that cometh to seek after knowledge, with a mind to scorn, shall be sure to find matter for his humour, but no matter for his instruction.

It is the true office of history to represent the events themselves, together with the counsels, and to leave the observations and conclusions thereupon to the liberty and faculty of every man's judgment

Truth is a good dog; but always beware of barking too close to the heels of an error, lest you get your brains kicked out.

Why should a man be in love with his fetters, though of gold?

I think I tend to destroy the better paintings, or those that have been better to a certain extent. I try and take them further, and they lose all their qualities, and they lose everything. I think I would say that I destroy all the better paintings.

The best preservative to keep the mind in health is the faithful admonition of a friend.

More dangers have deceived men than forced them.