A poet who makes use of a worse word instead of a better, because the former fits the rhyme or the measure, though it weakens the sense, is like a jeweller, who cuts a diamond into a brilliant, and diminishes the weight to make it shine more.

Our [British] summers are often, though beautiful for verdure, so cold, that they are rather cold winters.

The wisest prophets make sure of the event first.

Two clergymen disputing whether ordination would be valid without the imposition of both hands, the more formal one said, "Do you think the Holy Dove could fly down with only one wing?

I do not admire politicians; but when they are excellent in their way, one cannot help allowing them their due.

Perhaps those, who, trembling most, maintain a dignity in their fate, are the bravest: resolution on reflection is real courage.

Our bells are worn threadbare with ringing for victories