As monarchs have a right to call in the specie of a state, and raise its value, by their own impression; so are there certain prerogative geniuses, who are above plagiaries, who cannot be said to steal, but, from their improvement of a thought, rather to borrow it, and repay the commonwealth of letters with interest again; and may wore properly be said to adopt, than to kidnap a sentiment, by leaving it heir to their own fame.

Some people pass through life soberly and religiously enough, without knowing way, or reasoning about it, but, from force of habit merely, go to heaven like fools.

The great end of all religionis to purify our hearts--and conquer our passions--and in a word, to make us wiser and better men--better neighbours--better citizens--and better servants of GOD.

The desire of knowledge, like the thirst of riches, increases ever with the acquisition of it.

In solitude the mind gains strength and learns to lean upon itself.

Simplicity is the great friend to nature, and if I would be proud of anything in this silly world, it should be of this honest alliance.

I am persuaded that every time a man smiles - but much more so when he laughs - it adds something to this fragment of life.