A weak mind is like a microscope, which magnifies trifling things but cannot receive great ones.

The herd of mankind can hardly be said to think; their notions are almost all adoptive; and, in general, I believe it is better that it should be so; as such common prejudices contribute more to order and quiet, than their own separate reasonings would do, uncultivated and unimproved as they are.

A joker is near akin to a buffoon; and neither of them is the least related to wit.

Assurance and intrepidity, under the white banner of seeming modesty, clear the way for merit, that would otherwise be discouraged by difficulties...

In seeking wisdom thou art wise; in imagining that thou hast attained it - thou art a fool.

Cautiously avoid speaking of the domestic affairs either of yourself, or of other people. Yours are nothing to them but tedious gossip; and theirs are nothing to you.

A gentleman has ease without familiarity, is respectful without meanness; genteel without affectation, insinuating without seeming art.