We often see malefactors, when they are led to execution, put on resolution and a contempt of death which, in truth, is nothing else but fearing to look it in the face--so that this pretended bravery may very truly be said to do the same good office to their mind that the blindfold does to their eyes.

There are heroes in evil as well as in good.

We never desire strongly, what we desire rationally.

The vivacity that augments with years is not far from folly.

Some crimes get honor and renown by being committed with more pomp, by a greater number, and in a higher degree of wickedness thanothers. Hence it is that public robberies, plunderings, and sackings have been looked upon as excellencies and noble achievements, and the seizing of whole countries, however unjustly and barbarously, is dignified with the glorious name of gaining conquests.

Truth does not do as much good in the world as its imitations do harm.

Imagination could never invent the number of different contradictions that exist innately in each person's heart.