My appetite comes to me while eating.

It is probable that the principal credit of miracles, visions, enchantments, and such extraordinary occurrences comes from the power of imagination, acting principally upon the minds of the common people, which are softer.

I write to keep from going mad from the contradictions I find among mankind - and to work some of those contradictions out for myself.

There is no conversation more boring than the one where everybody agrees.

The most evident token and apparent sign of true wisdom is a constant and unconstrained rejoicing.

Covetousness is both the beginning and the end of the devil's alphabet - the first vice in corrupt nature that moves, and the last which dies.

In my opinion, the most fruitful and natural play of the mind is conversation. I find it sweeter than any other action in life; and if I were forced to choose, I think I would rather lose my sight than my hearing and voice. The study of books is a drowsy and feeble exercise which does not warm you up.