Happiness is a sunbeam which may pass through a thousand bosoms without losing a particle of its original ray; nay, when it strikes on a kindred heart, like the converged light on a mirror, it reflects itself with redoubled brightness. It is not perfected till it is shared.

Don't live to please others. Don't think everyone else knows what's right or true. Listen to yourself, and be true to yourself. That way, no matter what else happens in life, you will always have your self-respect.

In his fairy dreams of war [Thaddeus] always made conquest the sure end of his battles.

Guilt is a spiritual Rubicon.

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

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

Virtue is despotic; life, reputation, every earthly good, must be surrendered at her voice. The law may seem hard, but it is the guardian of what it commands; and is the only sure defence of happiness.