In the sallies of badinage a polite fool shines; but in gravity he is as awkward as an elephant disporting.

Many species of wit are quite mechanical; these are the favorites of witlings, whose fame in words scarce outlives the remembrance of their funeral ceremonies.

Books afford the surest relief in the most melancholy moments.

Thought and action are the redeeming features of our lives.

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.

Nobility should be elective, not hereditary.