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

Books support us in our solitude and keep us from being a burden to ourselves.

Dependence goes somewhat against the grain of a generous mind; and it is no wonder that it should do so, considering the unreasonable advantage which is often taken of the inequality of fortune.

Those who despise fame seldom deserve it. We are apt to undervalue the purchase we cannot reach, to conceal our poverty the better. It is a spark which kindles upon the best fuel, and burns brightest in the bravest breast.

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

A man by tumbling his thoughts, and forming them into expressions, gives them a new fermentation, which works them into a finer body.

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