We should rather examine, who is better learned, than who is more learned.

If my mind could gain a firm footing, I would not make essays, I would make decisions; but it is always in apprenticeship and on trial.

Amongst all other vices there is none I hate more than cruelty, both by nature and judgment, as the extremest of all vices.

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

We imagine much more appropriately an artisan on his toilet seat or on his wife than a great president, venerable by his demeanorand his ability. It seems to us that they do not stoop from their lofty thrones even to live.

Report followeth not all goodness, except difficulty and rarity be joined thereto.

The honor we receive from those that fear us, is not honor; those respects are paid to royalty and not to me.