It often happens that, if a lie be believed only for an hour, it has done its work, and there is no further occasion for it.

The latter part of a wise person's life is occupied with curing the follies, prejudices and false opinions they contracted earlier.

Lose no time to contradict her, Nor endeavor to convict her; Only take this rule along, Always to advise her wrong, And reprove her when she's right; She may then grow wise for spite.

A footman may swear; but he cannot swear like a lord. He can swear as often: but can he swear with equal delicacy, propriety, and judgment?

It is as hard to satirize well a man of distinguished vices, as to praise well a man of distinguished virtues.

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

I have known some men possessed of good qualities which were very serviceable to others, but useless to themselves; like a sun-dial on the front of a house, to inform the neighbours and passengers, but not the owner within.