Of all the things in nature, the formation and endowment of man was singled out by the ancients.

Neither the naked hand nor the understanding left to itself can effect much. It is by instruments and helps that the work is done, which are as much wanted for the understanding as for the hand. And as the instruments of the hand either give motion or guide it, so the instruments of the mind supply either suggestions for the understanding or cautions.

In taking revenge, a man is but even with his enemy; but in passing it over, he is superior.

I work for posterity, these things requiring ages for their accomplishment.

Judges must beware of hard constructions and strained inferences, for there is no worse torture than that of laws.

Nuptial love makes mankind; friendly love perfects it; but wanton love corrupts and debases it.

Begin doing what you want to do now. We are not living in eternity. We have only this moment, sparkling like a star in our hand - and melting like a snowflake.