There is not a greater paradox in nature,--than that so good a religion [as Christianity] should be no better recommended by its professors.

Any one may do a casual act of good-nature; but a continuation of them shows it a part of the temperament.

People who overly take care of their health are like misers. They hoard up a treasure which they never enjoy.

Before an affliction is digested, consolation ever comes too soon; and after it is digested, it comes too late.

Sweet pliability of man's spirit, that can at once surrender itself to illusions, which cheat expectation and sorrow of their weary moments! - long - long since had ye numbered out my days, had I not trod so great a part of them upon this enchanted ground. When my way is too rough for my feet, or too steep for my strength, I get off it, to some smooth velvet path which fancy has scattered over with rose-buds of delights; and have taken a few turns on it, come back strengthened and refreshed.

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.

Sciences may be learned by rote, but wisdom not.