Who then to frail mortality shall trust But limns the water, or but writes in dust.

There is another ground of hope that must not be omitted. Let men but think over their infinite expenditure of understanding, time, and means on matters and pursuits of far less use and value; whereof, if but a small part were directed to sound and solid studies, there is no difficulty that might not be overcome.

The eye of understanding is like the eye of the sense; for as you may see great objects through small crannies or levels, so you may see great axioms of nature through small and contemptible instances.

Men seem neither to understand their riches nor their strength. Of the former they believe greater things than they should; of the latter, less.

Age appears to be best in four things; old wood best to burn, old wine to drink, old friends to trust, and old authors to read.

There is no secrecy comparable to celerity.

A man cannot speak to his son, but as a father; to his wife, but as a husband; to his enemy, but upon terms: whereas a friend may speak, as the case requires, and not as it sorteth with the person.