A novel must be exceptionally good to live as long as the average cat.

Great merit or great failings will make you respected or despised; but trifles, little attentions, mere nothings, either done or neglected, will make you either liked or disliked, in the general run of the world. Examine yourself, why you like such and such people and dislike such and such others; and you will find that those different sentiments proceed from very slight causes.

Be wiser than other people if you can; but do not tell them so.

There is nothing so necessary, but at the same time there is nothing more difficult (I know it by experience) for you young fellows, than to know how to behave yourselves prudently towards those whom you do not like. Your passions are warm, and your heads are light; you hate all those who oppose your views, either of ambition or love; and a rival, in either, is almost a synonymous term for any enemy.

Seek always for the best words and the happiest expression you can find.

Ceremony is necessary in Courts, as the outwork and defense of manners.

Hear one side and you will be in the dark. Hear both and all will be clear.