Dr. Johnson has said that the chief glory of a country arises from its authors. But then that is only as they are oracles of wisdom; unless they teach virtue, they are more worthy of a halter than of the laurel.

True virtue, when she errs, needs not the eyes of men to excite her blushes; she is confounded at her own presence, and covered with confusion of face.

The pure in heart are slow to credit calumnies, because they hardly comprehend what motives can be inducements to the alleged crimes.

A generous spirit is as eloquent in acknowledging benefits as it is bounteous in bestowing them.

The fruition of what is unlawful must be followed by remorse. The core sticks in the throat after the apple is eaten, and the sated appetite loathes the interdicted pleasure for which innocence was bartered.

The flatterer easily insinuates himself into the closet, while honest merit stands shivering in the hall or antechamber.

Imparting knowledge is only lighting other men's candles at our lamp without depriving ourselves of any flame.