We are, in truth, more than half what we are by imitation.

Two people cannot be alone together for upwards of half an hour without one emerging as the superior.

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.

You should not only have attention to everything, but a quickness of attention, so as to observe at once all the people in the room--their motions, their looks and their words--and yet without staring at them and seeming to be an observer.

Awkwardness is a more real disadvantage than it is generally thought to be; it often occasions ridicule, it always lessens dignity.

No man tastes pleasures truly, who does not earn them by previous business; and few people do business well, who do nothing else.

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