Content has a kindly influence on the soul of man, in respect of every being to whom he stands related. It extinguishes all murmuring, repining, and ingratitude toward that Being who has allotted us our part to act in the world. It destroys all inordinate ambition; gives sweetness to the conversation, and serenity to all the thoughts; and if it does not bring riches, it does the same thing by banishing the desire of them.

The most skillful flattery is to let a person talk on, and be a listener.

Good nature will always supply the absence of beauty; but beauty cannot supply the absence of good nature.

A true critic ought to dwell rather upon excellencies than imperfections

Rides in the whirlwind and directs the storm.

Great souls by instinct to each other turn, demand alliance, and in friendship burn.

Our friends don't see our faults, or conceal them, or soften them.