Leisure, the highest happiness upon earth, is seldom enjoyed with perfect satisfaction, except in solitude. Indolence and indifference do not always afford leisure; for true leisure is frequently found in that interval of relaxation which divides a painful duty from an agreeable recreation; a toilsome business from the more agreeable occupations of literature and philosophy.

The quarter of an hour before dinner is the worst that suitors can choose.

A good name will wear out; a bad one may be turned; a nickname lasts forever.

Books afford the surest relief in the most melancholy moments.

Family pride entertains many unsocial opinions.

In fame's temple there is always a niche to be found for rich dunces, importunate scoundrels, or successful butchers of the human race.

Nobility should be elective, not hereditary.