Fie on the eloquence that leaves us craving itself, not things!

I don't break the law* made for crooks, when I take away my own property - thus I am not obliged to conform to the law made for murderers when I deprive myself of my own life.

For among other things he had been counseled to bring me to love knowledge and duty by my own choice, without forcing my will, and to educate my soul entirely through gentleness and freedom.

There is nothing on which men are commonly more intent than on making a way for their opinions.

I listen with attention to the judgment of all men; but so far as I can remember, I have followed none but my own.

The beginnings of all things are weak and tender. We must therefore be clear-sighted in the beginnings, for, as in their budding we discern not the danger, so in their full growth we perceive not the remedy.

Cowardice is the mother of cruelty.