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

none are fit judges of greatness but those who are capable of it.

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

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.

The platform or the altar of love may be analyzed and explained; it is constructed of virtue, beauty, and affection. Such is the pyre, such is the offering; but the ethereal spark must come from heaven, that lights the sacrifice.

Nobility, without virtue, is a fine setting without a gem

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.