He who desires solitude is either an animal or a god.

People usually think according to their inclinations, speak according to their learning and ingrained opinions, but generally act according to custom.

Nature, to be commanded, must be obeyed.

Men leave their riches either to their kindred or their friends, and moderate portions prosper best in both.

Hurl your calumnies boldly; something is sure to stick.

But we may go further, and affirm most truly, that it is a mere and miserable solitude to want true friends; without which the world is but a wilderness.

It cannot be denied that outward accidents conduce much to fortune, favor, opportunity, death of others, occasion fitting virtue; but chiefly, the mold of a man's fortune is in his own hands