As it is the nature of a kite to devour little birds, so it is the nature of some minds to insult and tyrannize over little people; this being the means which they use to recompense themselves for their extreme servility and condescension to their superiors; for nothing can be more reasonable than that slaves and flatterers should exact the same taxes on all below them which they themselves pay to all above them.

When children are doing nothing, they are doing mischief.

Commend a fool for his wit, or a rogue for his honesty and he will receive you into his favour.

The raillery which is consistent with good-breeding is a gentle animadversion of some foible, which, while it raises the laugh in the rest of the company, doth not put the person rallied out of countenance, or expose him to shame or contempt. On the contrary, the jest should be so delicate that the object of it should be capable of joining in the mirth it occasions.

Nothing more aggravates ill success than the near approach of good.

Considering the unforeseen events of this world, we should be taught that no human condition should inspire men with absolute despair.

Tea! The panacea for everything from weariness to a cold to a murder Love and scandal are the best sweeteners of tea.