I really know nothing more criminal, more mean, and more ridiculous than lying. It is the production either of malice, cowardice, or vanity; and generally misses of its aim in every one of these views; for lies are always detected, sooner or later.

Seek always for the best words and the happiest expression you can find.

Compliments of congratulation are always kindly taken, and cost nothing but pen, ink and paper. I consider them as draughts upon good breeding, where the exchange is always greatly in favor of the drawer.

The heart has such an influence over the understanding, that it is worth while to engage it in our interest.

A weak mind is like a microscope, which magnifies trifling things but cannot receive great ones.

Indifference is commonly the mother of discretion.

May you live as long as you are fit to live, but no longer, or, may you rather die before you cease to be fit to live than after!