I have known several persons of great fame for wisdom in public affairs and councils governed by foolish servants. I have known great ministers, distinguished for wit and learning, who preferred none but dunces. I have known men of valor cowards to their wives. I have known men of cunning perpetually cheated. I knew three ministers who would exactly compute and settle the accounts of a kingdom, wholly ignorant of their own economy.

Oh that I were seated as high as my ambition, I'd place my naked foot on the necks of monarchs.

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

Our bells are worn threadbare with ringing for victories

I can forgive injuries, but never benefits.

An ancient prophecy ... pronounced, That the castle and lordship of Otranto should pass from the present family, whenever the real owner should be grown too large to inhabit it!

Lord Bath used to say of women, who are apt to say that they will follow their own judgment, that they could not follow a worse guide.