Presumption is our natural and original malady. The most vulnerable and frail of all creatures is man, and at the same time the most arrogant.

An ancient father says that a dog we know is better company than a man whose language we do not understand.

An able reader often discovers in other people's writings perfections beyond those that the author put in or perceived, and lends them richer meanings and aspects.

Custom is a violent and treacherous school mistress. She, by little and lithe, slyly and unperceived, slips in the foot of her authority; but having by this gentle and humble beginning, with the benefit of time, fixed and established it, she then unmasks a furious and tyrannic countenance, against which we have no more the courage or the power so much as to lift up our eyes.

It takes strong ears indeed to hear ourselves judged frankly, and because there are few who can endure criticism without being stung by it, those who venture to criticize us perform a remarkable act of friendship. For it is a healthy love that will risk wounding or offending in order to profer a benefit.

Lend yourself to others, but give yourself to yourself.

Even opinion is of force enough to make itself to be espoused at the expense of life.