A strong memory is commonly coupled with infirm judgment.

Truly it is reasonable to make a great distinction between the faults that come from our weakness and those that come from our wickedness.

When we have got it, we want something else.

My library is my kingdom, and here I try to make my rule absolute-shutting off this single nook from wife, daughter and society. Elsewhere I have only a verbal authority, and vague. Unhappy is the man, in my opinion, who has no spot at home where he can be at home to himself-to court himself and hide away.

Natural inclinations are assisted and reinforced by education, but they are hardly ever altered or overcome.

There is not much less vexation in the government of a private family than in the managing of an entire state.

For among other things he had been counseled to bring me to love knowledge and duty by my own choice, without forcing my will, and to educate my soul entirely through gentleness and freedom.