So much are our minds influenced by the accidents of our bodies, that every man is more the man of the day than a regular and consequential character.

If originally it was not good for a man to be alone, it is much worse for a sick man to be so; he thinks too much of his distemper, and magnifies it.

Physical ills are the taxes laid upon this wretched life; some are taxed higher, and some lower, but all pay something.

Advice is seldom welcome, and those who need it the most, like it the least.

I am very sure that any man of common understanding may, by culture, care, attention, and labor, make himself what- ever he pleases, except a great poet.

An able man shows his spirit by gentle words and resolute actions. He is neither hot nor timid.

Manners must adorn knowledge and smooth its way in the world, without them it is like a great rough diamond, very well in a closet by way of curiosity, and also for its intrinsic value; but most prized when polished.