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

Cautiously avoid speaking of the domestic affairs either of yourself, or of other people. Yours are nothing to them but tedious gossip; and theirs are nothing to you.

Half the business is done, when one has gained the heart and the affections of those with whom one is to transact it.

Firmness of purpose is one of the best instruments of success.

Arbitrary power has seldom... been introduced in any country at once. It must be introduced by slow degrees, and as it were step by step.

Human nature is the same everywhere; the modes only are different.

Ridicule is the best test of truth.