I am provoked at the contempt which most historians show for humanity in general; one would think by them, that the whole human species consisted but of about a hundred and fifty people, called and dignified (commonly very undeservedly too) by the titles of Emperors, Kings, Popes, Generals, and Ministers.

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

Swift speedy time, feathered with flying hours, Dissolves the beauty of the fairest brow.

Good humor is the health of the soul, sadness is its poison.

Gratitude is a burden upon our imperfect nature.

Every man becomes, to a certain degree, what the people he generally converses with are.

Montesquieu well knew, and justly admired, the happy constitution of this country [Great Britain], where fixed and known laws equally restrain monarchy from tyranny and liberty from licentiousness.