In the course of the world, a man must very often put on an easy, frank countenance, upon very disagreeable occasions; he must seem pleased, when he is very much otherwise; he must be able to accost and receive with smiles, those whom he would much rather meet with swords.

In business be as able as you can, but do not be cunning; cunning is the dark sanctuary of incapacity.

Conscious virtue is the only solid foundation of all happiness; for riches, power, rank, or whatever, in the common acceptation ofthe word, is supposed to constitute happiness, will never quiet, much less cure, the inward pangs of guilt.

Ceremonies are the outworks of manners.

In the case of scandal, as in that of robbery, the receiver is always thought as bad as the thief.

Absolute power can only be supported by error, ignorance and prejudice.

The vulgar only laugh, but never smile; whereas well-bred people often smile, but seldom laugh.