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.

Books are a languid pleasure.

How many things we held yesterday as articles of faith which today we tell as fables.

A man may by custom fortify himself against pain, shame, and suchlike accidents; but as to death, we can experience it but once, and are all apprentices when we come to it

Virtue shuns ease as a companion. It demands a rough and thorny path.

Why do people respect the package rather than the man?

Nature is a gentle guide, but not more sweet and gentle than prudent and just.