The least and most imperceptible impressions received in our infancy have consequences very important and of long duration.

A sound mind in a sound body is a short but full description of a happy state in this world.

Where there is no desire, there will be no industry.

Every man carries about him a touchstone, if he will make use of it, to distinguish substantial gold from superficial glitterings, truth from appearances. And indeed the use and benefit of this touchstone, which is natural reason, is spoiled and lost only by assuming prejudices, overweening presumption, and narrowing our minds.

The reservedness and distance that fathers keep, often deprive their sons of that refuge which would be of more advantage to them than an hundred rebukes or chidings.

Where all is but dream, reasoning and arguments are of no use, truth and knowledge nothing.

Reading furnishes the mind only with materials of knowledge; it is thinking that makes what we read ours.