Power is no blessing in itself, except when it is used to protect the innocent.

When men grow virtuous in their old age, they only make a sacrifice to God of the devil's leavings.

Old sciences are unraveled like old stockings, by beginning at the foot.

Would a writer know how to behave himself with relation td posterity? Let him consider in old books what he finds that he is glad to know, and what omissions he most laments.

Party is the madness of many for the gain of a few.

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

If it were a rainy day, a drunken vigil, a fit of the spleen, a course of physic, sleepy Sunday, an ill run at dice, a long tailor's bill, a beggar's purse, a factious head, a hot sun, costive diet, want of books, and a just contempt for learning - but for these. . .the number of authors and of writing would dwindle away to a degree most woeful to behold.