Promises are dangerous things to ask or to give.

Books only spoil the originality of genius. Very well for those who can't think for themselves - But when one has made up one's opinions, there is no use in reading.

The Irish sometimes make and keep a vow against whiskey; these vows are usually limited to a short time.

Surely it is much more generous to forgive and remember, than to forgive and forget.

Those who have lived in a house with spoiled children must have a lively recollection of the degree of torment they can inflict upon all who are within sight or hearing.

How success changes the opinion of men!

[On collectors of quotations:] How far our literature may in future suffer from these blighting swarms, will best be conceived by a glance at what they have already withered and blasted of the favourite productions of our most popular poets.