'Tis the sharpness of our mind that gives the edge to our pains and pleasures.

Who is only good that others may know it, and that he may be the better esteemed when 'tis known, who will do well but upon condition that his virtue may be known to men, is one from whom much service is not to be expected.

Fear sometimes adds wings to the heels, and sometimes nails them to the ground, and fetters them from moving.

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.

Fame and tranquility can never be bedfellows.

Ambition is not a vice of little people.

Stupidity and wisdom meet in the same centre of sentiment and resolution, in the suffering of human accidents.