The vulgar and common esteem is seldom happy in hitting right; and I am much mistaken if, amongst the writings of my time, the worst are not those which have most gained the popular applause.

There is indeed a certain sense of gratification when we do a good deed that gives us inward satisfaction, and a generous pride that accompanies a good conscience…These testimonies of a good conscience are pleasant; and such a natural pleasure is very beneficial to us; it is the only payment that can never fail. “On Repentance

We judge a horse not only by its pace on a racecourse, but also by its walk, nay, when resting in its stable.

The pleasantest things in the world are pleasant thoughts, and the great art of life is to have as many of them as possible.

Once conform, once do what others do because they do it, and a kind of lethargy steals over all the finer senses of the soul.

Is it not enough to make me come back to life out of spite, to have someone who spat in my face while I existed come and rub my feet when I am beginning to exist no longer?

Rash and incessant scolding runs into custom and renders itself despised.