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

The only solid and lasting peace between a man and his wife is, doubtless, a separation.

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

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

Learn to shrink yourself to the size of the company you are in. Take their tone, whatever it may be, and excell in it if you can;but never pretend to give the tone. A free conversation will no more bear a dictator than a free government will.

Nothing sharpens the arrow of sarcasm so keenly as the courtesy that polishes it; no reproach is like that we clothe with a smile and present with a bow.

It is good breeding alone that can prepossess people in your favor at first sight, more time being necessary to discover greater talents.