In the ordinary course of things, how many succeed in society merely by virtue of their manners, while others, however meritorious, fail through lack of them? After all, it's only barbarians who wear uncut precious stones.

No man tastes pleasures truly, who does not earn them by previous business; and few people do business well, who do nothing else.

Second-rate knowledge, and middling talents, carry a man farther at courts, and in the busy part of the world, than superior knowledge and shining parts.

In my mind, there is nothing so illiberal, and so ill-bred, as audible laughter.

A wise man will live as much within his wit as his income.... Bear this truth always in your mind, that you may be admired for your wit, if you have any; but that nothing but good sense and good qualities can make you be loved.

No man can possibly improve in any company for which he has not respect enough to be under some degree of restraint.

Little vicious minds abound with anger and revenge and are incapable of feeling te pleasure of forgiving their enemies.