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.

Unlike my subject will I frame my song, It shall be witty and it shan't be long.

A rake is a composition of all the lowest, most ignoble, degrading, and shameful vices; they all conspire to disgrace his character, and to ruin his fortune; while wine and the pox content which shall soonest and most effectually destroy his constitution.

An honest man may really love a pretty girl, but only an idiot marries her merely because she is pretty.

Physical ills are the taxes laid upon this wretched life; some are taxed higher, and some lower, but all pay something.

May you live as long as you are fit to live, but no longer, or, may you rather die before you cease to be fit to live than after!

You must be respectful and assenting, but without being servile and abject. You must be frank, but without indiscretion, and close, without being costive. You must keep up dignity of character, without the least pride of birth, or rank. You must be gay, within all the bounds of decency and respect; and grave, without the affectation of wisdom, which does not become the age of twenty. You must be essentially secret, without being dark and mysterious. You must be firm, and even bold, but with great seeming modesty.