Though we cannot totally change our nature, we may in great measure correct it by reflection and philosophy; and some philosophy is a very necessary companion in this world, where, even to the most fortunate, the chances are greatly against happiness.

Few people do business well, who do nothing else.

Business by no means forbids pleasures; on the contrary, they reciprocally season each other; and I will venture to affirm, that no man enjoys either in perfection that does not join both.

Cottages have them (falsehood and dissimulation) as well as courts, only with worse manners.

The world is a country which nobody ever yet knew by description; one must travel through it one's self to be acquainted with it.

Politicians neither love nor hate. Interest, not sentiment, directs them.

Either a good or a bad reputation outruns and gets before people wherever they go.