Books are the legacies that a great genius leaves to mankind

There is no greater sign of a general decay of virtue in a nation, than a want of zeal in its inhabitants for the good of their country.

There is not a more unhappy being than a superannuated idol.

Antidotes are what you take to prevent dotes.

Plutarch has written an essay on the benefits which a man may receive from his enemies; and among the good fruits of enmity, mentions this in particular, that by the reproaches which it casts upon us, we see the worst side of ourselves.

Cunning has only private selfish aims, and sticks at nothing which may make them succeed. Discretion has large and extended views, and, like a well-formed eye, commands a whole horizon; cunning is a kind of shortsightedness, that discovers the minutest objects which are near at hand, but is not able to discern things at a distance.

Charity is the perfection and ornament of religion.