I should, many a good day, have blown my brains out, but for the recollection that it would have given pleasure to my mother-in-law.

I have always believed that all things depended upon Fortune, and nothing upon ourselves.

Tis pleasant purchasing our fellow-creatures; And all are to be sold, if you consider Their passions, and are dext'rous; some by features Are brought up, others by a warlike leader; Some by a place--as tend their years or natures; The most by ready cash--but all have prices, From crowns to kicks, according to their vices.

When Newton saw an apple fall, he found In that slight startle from his contemplation- 'Tis said (for I'll not answer above ground For any sage's creed or calculation)- A mode of proving that the earth turn'd round In a most natural whirl, called 'gravitation'; And this is the sole mortal who could grapple, Since Adam, with a fall, or with an apple.

Self praise is no praise at all.

Tis sweet to listen as the night winds creep From leaf to leaf.

If I don't write to empty my mind, I go mad.