Compulsion hardly restores right; love yields all things.

The only impregnable citadel of virtue is religion; for there is no bulwark of mere morality, which some temptation may not overtop or undermine, and destroy.

Beauty of form affects the mind, but then it must be understood that it is not the mere shell that we admire; we are attracted by the idea that this shell is only a beautiful case adjusted to the shape and value of a still more beautiful pearl within. The perfection of outward loveliness is the soul shining through its crystalline covering.

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

When Alexander had subdued the world, and wept that none were left to dispute his arms, his tears were an involuntary tribute to a monarchy that he knew not, man's empire over himself.

Magnanimity is above circumstance; and any virtue which depends on that is more of constitution than of principle.

When the cup of any sensual pleasure is drained to the bottom, there is always poison in the dregs.