Few people have the wisdom to prefer the criticism that would do them good, to the praise that deceives them.

There is no better proof of a man's being truly good than his desiring to be constantly under the observation of good men.

Nothing is so contagious as example; never was there any considerable good or ill done that does not produce its like. We imitate good actions through emulation, and had ones through a malignity in our nature, which shame conceals, and example sets at liberty.

Though confidence is very fine, and makes the future sunny; I want no confidence for mine, I'd rather have the money

It is with certain good qualities as with the senses; those who have them not can neither appreciate nor comprehend them in others.

What is called generosity is usually only the vanity of giving; we enjoy the vanity more than the thing given.

It is not enough to have great qualities; We should also have the management of them.