We are as often duped by diffidence as by confidence.

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.

Firmness of purpose is one of the most necessary sinews of character, and one of the best instruments of success. Without it, genius wastes its efforts in a maze of inconsistencies.

Sex: the pleasure is momentary, the position ridiculous, and the expense damnable.

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

A cheerful, easy, open countenance will make fools think you a good-natured man, and make designing men think you an undesigning one.

Know the true value of time; snatch, seize, and enjoy every moment of it.