How often do we contradict the right rules of reason in the whole course of our lives! Reason itself is true and just, but the reason of every particular man is weak and wavering, perpetually swayed and turned by his interests, his passions, and his vices.

Conscience signifies that knowledge which a man hath of his own thoughts and actions; and because, if a man judgeth fairly of his actions by comparing them with the law of God, his mind will approve or condemn him; this knowledge or conscience may be both an accuser and a judge.

Although men are accused of not knowing their own weakness, yet perhaps few know their own strength. It is in men as in soils, where sometimes there is a vein of gold which the owner knows not of.

I have ever hated all nations, professions, and communities, and all my love is toward individuals.

Very few men, properly speaking, live at present, but are providing to live another time.

Perverseness is your whole defence.

No man was ever so completely skilled in the conduct of life, as not to receive new information from age and experience.