Fortitude implies a firmness and strength of mind, that enables us to do and suffer as we ought. It rises upon an opposition, and, like a river, swells the higher for having its course stopped.

Thoughts take up no room. When they are right, they afford a portable pleasure, which one may travel with, without any trouble or encumbrance.

Without discretion, people may be overlaid with unreasonable affection, and choked with too much nourishment.

Emulation is a handsome passion; it is enterprising, but just withal. It keeps a man within the terms of honor, and makes the contest for glory just and generous. He strives to excel, but it is by raising himself, not by depressing others.

Dangerous principles impose upon our understanding, emasculate our spirits, and spoil our temper.

He that would be a master must draw from the life as well as copy from originals, and join theory and experience together.

Books are a guide in youth, and an entertainment for age.