There is graciousness and a kind of urbanity in beginning with men by esteem and confidence. It proves, at least, that we have long lived in good company with others and with our selves.

We use up in the passions the stuff that was given us for happiness.

Proverbs may be said to be the abridgment of wisdom.

Beautiful works do not intoxicate, but they enchant.

Xenophon wrote with a swan's quill, Plato with a pen of gold, and Thucydides with a brazen stylus.

To the liberal ideas of the age must be opposed the moral ideas of all ages.

We always believe God is like ourselves, the indulgent think him indulgent and the stern, terrible.