Always make the best of the best, and never make bad worse.

Armies, though always the supporters and tools of absolute power for the time being, are always the destroyers of it too; by frequently changing the hands in which they think proper to lodge it.

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

The most familiar and intimate habitudes, connections, friendships, require a degree of good-breeding both to preserve and cement them.

Words are the dress of thoughts; which should no more be presented in rags, tatters, and dirt than your person should.

Real merit of any kind cannot long be concealed; it will be discovered, and nothing can depreciate it but a man exhibiting it himself. It may not always be rewarded as it ought; but it will always be known.

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