Emotions are raised in us, not only by the qualities and actions of others, but also by their feelings. I cannot behold a man in distress, without partaking of his pain; nor in joy, without partaking of his pleasure.

Violent passions are formed in solitude. In the busy world no object has time to make a deep impression.

Such is the power of imagination, that even a chimerical pleasure in expectation affects us more than a solid pleasure in possession.

Ridicule, which chiefly arises from pride, a selfish passion, is but at best a gross pleasure, too rough an entertainment for those who are highly polished and refined.

Whoever appears to have much cunning has in reality very little; being deficient in the essential article, which is, to hide cunning.

False praise is always confined to the great.

Great wants proceed from great wealth; but they are undutiful children, for they sink wealth down to poverty.