Discourtesy does not spring merely from one bad quality, but from several--from foolish vanity, from ignorance of what is due to others, from indolence, from stupidity, from distraction of thought, from contempt of others, from jealousy.

There is as much trickery required to grow rich by a stupid book as there is folly in buying it.

The flatterer does not think highly enough of himself or of others.

The most important things must be said simply, for they are spoiled by bombast; whereas trivial things must be described grandly, for they are supported only by aptness of expression, tone and manner.

If men wish to be held in esteem, they must associate with those only who are estimable.

Incivility is not a Vice of the Soul, but the effect of several Vices; of Vanity, Ignorance of Duty, Laziness, Stupidity, Distraction, Contempt of others, and Jealousy.

Piety with some people, but especially with women, is either a passion, or an infirmity of age, or a fashion which must be followed.