There is no comparison between that which is lost by not succeeding and that which is lost by not trying.

But this is that which will dignify and exalt knowledge: if contemplation and action be more nearly and straitly conjoined and united together than they have been: a conjunction like unto that of the highest planets, Saturn, the planet of rest and contemplation, and Jupiter, the planet of civil society and action.

Money is a great servant but a bad master.

Some men covet knowledge out of a natural curiosity and inquisitive temper; some to entertain the mind with variety and delight; some for ornament and reputation; some for victory and contention; many for lucre and a livelihood; and but few for employing the Divine gift of reason to the use and benefit of mankind.

There was never miracle wrought by God to convert an atheist, because the light of nature might have led him to confess a God.

It is nothing won to admit men with an open door, and to receive them with a shut and reserved countenance.

Let every student of nature take this as his rule, that whatever the mind seizes upon with particular satisfaction is to be held in suspicion.