There is indeed a certain sense of gratification when we do a good deed that gives us inward satisfaction, and a generous pride that accompanies a good conscience…These testimonies of a good conscience are pleasant; and such a natural pleasure is very beneficial to us; it is the only payment that can never fail. “On Repentance

Wonder is the foundation of all philosophy, inquiry the progress, ignorance the end.

Wise men have more to learn of fools than fools of wise men.

What harm cause not those huge draughts or pictures which wanton youth with chalk or coals draw in each passage, wall or stairs of our great houses, whence a cruel contempt of our natural store is bred in them?

There are as many and innumerable degrees of wit, as there are cubits between this and heaven.

It takes so much to be a king that he exists only as such. That extraneous glare that surrounds him hides him and conceals him from us; our sight breaks and is dissipated by it being filled and arrested by this strong light.

No-one is exempt from speaking nonsense – the only misfortune is to do it solemnly.