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.

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

Ceremony is necessary in Courts, as the outwork and defense of manners.

Mind not only what people say, but how they say it; and if you have any sagacity, you may discover more truth by your eyes than by your ears. People can say what they will, but they cannot look just as they will; and their looks frequently (reveal) what their words are calculated to conceal.

Man is more himself, man is more manlike, when joy is the fundamental thing in him, and grief the superficial.

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.

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