Argument is the worst sort of conversation.

Religion supposed Heaven and Hell, the word of God, and sacraments, and twenty other circumstances which, taken seriously, are a wonderful check to wit and humour.

Ah, a German and a genius ! A prodigy, admit him !

Great abilities, when employed as God directs, do but make the owners of them greater and more painful servants to their neighbors.

Story-telling is subject to two unavoidable defects,--frequent repetition and being soon exhausted; so that, whoever values this gift in himself, has need of a good memory, and ought frequently to shift his company.

Ay, do despise me, I'm the prouder for it; I like to be despised.

Invention is the talent of youth, as judgment is of age.