The exceptions of the scrupulous put one in mind of some general pardons where everything is forgiven except crimes.

Good writers will, indeed, do well to imitate the ingenious traveller. . .who always proportions his stay in any place.

Affectation proceeds from one of these two causes,--vanity or hypocrisy; for as vanity puts us on affecting false characters, in order to purchase applause; so hypocrisy sets us on an endeavor to avoid censure, by concealing our vices under an appearance of their opposite virtues.

Good-breeding is not confined to externals, much less to any particular dress or attitude of the body; it is the art of pleasing, or contributing as much as possible to the ease and happiness of those with whom you converse.

It is not enough that your designs, nay that your actions, are intrinsically good, you must take care they shall appear so.

Gravity is the best cloak for sin in all countries.

Good-nature is that benevolent and amiable temper of mind which disposes us to feel the misfortunes and enjoy the happiness of others, and, consequently, pushes us on to promote the latter and prevent the former; and that without any abstract contemplation on the beauty of virtue, and without the allurements or terrors of religion.