Contentment produces, in some measure, all those effects which the alchemist usually ascribes to what he calls the philosopher's stone; and if it does not bring riches, it does the same thing by banishing the desire for them.

Music, when thus applied, raises noble hints in the mind of the hearer, and fills it with great conceptions. It strengthens devotion, and advances praise into rapture.

It is wonderful to see persons of sense passing away a dozen hours together in shuffling and dividing a pack of cards.

It is odd to consider the connection between despotism and barbarity, and how the making one person more than man makes the rest less.

He who would pass his declining years with honor and comfort, should, when young, consider that he may one day become old, and remember when he is old, that he has once been young.

Flying would give such occasions for intrigues as people cannot meet with who have nothing but legs to carry them.

I think I may define taste to be that faculty of the soul which discerns the beauties of an author with pleasure, and the imperfections with dislike.