A fine coat is but a livery when the person who wears it discovers no higher sense than that of a footman.

A cloudy day or a little sunshine have as great an influence on many constitutions as the most recent blessings or misfortunes.

One should take good care not to grow too wise for so great a pleasure of life as laughter.

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.

Good nature is more agreeable in conversation than wit and gives a certain air to the countenance which is more amiable than beauty.

The end of a man's life is often compared to the winding up of a well written play, where the principal persons still act in character, whatever the fate in which they undergo.

A just and reasonable modesty does not only recommend eloquence, but sets off every great talent which a man can be possessed of.