Of all sorts of flattery, that which comes from a solemn character and stands before a sermon is the worst-complexioned. Such commendation is a satire upon the author, makes the text look mercenary, and disables the discourse from doing service.

True courage is the result of reasoning. A brave mind is always impregnable.

Conscience and covetousness are never to be reconciled; like fire and water they always destroy each other, according to the predominancy of the element.

Intemperance is a dangerous companion. It throws many people off their guard, betrays them to a great many indecencies, to ruinous passions, to disadvantages in fortune; makes them discover secrets, drive foolish bargains, engage in play, and often to stagger from the tavern to the stews.

Knowledge is the consequence of time, and multitude of days are fittest to teach wisdom.

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

The abuse of a thing is no argument against the use of it.