Long life, and short, are by death made all one; for there is no long, nor short, to things that are no more.

Courtesy is a science of the highest importance. It is...opening a door that we may derive instruction from the example of others, and at the same time enabling us to benefit them by our example, if there be anything in our character worthy of imitation.

As for our pupils talk, let his virtue and his sense of right and wrong shine through it and have no guide but reason. Make him understand that confessing an error which he discovers in his own argument even when he alone has noticed it is an act of justice and integrity, which are the main qualities he pursues; stubbornness and rancour are vulgar qualities, visible in common souls whereas to think again, to change one's mind and to give up a bad case on the heat of the argument are rare qualities showing strength and wisdom.

Speech belongs half to the speaker, half to the listener. The latter must prepare to receive it according to the motion it takes.

The relish of good and evil depends in a great measure upon the opinion we have of them.

It is fear that I stand most in fear of, in sharpness it exceeds every other feeling.

Praise is always pleasing, let it come from whom, or upon what account it will.