The stars shall fade away, the sun himself Grow dim with age, and nature sink in years, But thou shalt flourish in immortal youth, Unhurt amidst the wars of elements, The wrecks of matter, and the crush of worlds.

But in all despotic governments, though a particular prince may favour arts and letter, there is a natural degeneracy of mankind.

The utmost extent of man's knowledge, is to know that he knows nothing.

Temperance gives nature her full play, and enables her to exert herself in all her force and vigor.

There is nothing that makes its way more directly into the soul than beauty.

The passion for praise, which is so very vehement in the fair sex, produces excellent effects in women of sense, who desire to be admired for that which only deserves admiration.

With regard to donations always expect the most from prudent people, who keep their own accounts.