The only sure way of avoiding these evils [vanity and boasting] is never to speak of yourself at all. But when, historically, youare obliged to mention yourself, take care not to drop one single word that can directly or indirectly be construed as fishing for applause.

Either a good or a bad reputation outruns and gets before people wherever they go.

Dispatch is the soul of business.

Persist and persevere, and you will find most things that are attainable, possible.

Two people cannot be alone together for upwards of half an hour without one emerging as the superior.

Nothing convinces persons of a weak understanding so effectually, as what they do not comprehend.

All I desire for my own burial, is not to be buried alive; but how or where, I think, must be entirely indifferent to every rational creature.