There is a greatness in being generous, and there is only simple justice in satisfying creditors. Generosity is the part of the soul raised above the vulgar.

Religion does what philosophy could never do; it shows the equal dealings of Heaven to the happy and the unhappy, and levels all human enjoyments to nearly the same standard. It gives to both rich and poor the same happiness hereafter, and equal hopes to aspire after it.

A French woman is a perfect architect in dress: she never, with Gothic ignorance, mixes the orders; she never tricks out a snobby Doric shape with Corinthian finery; or, to speak without metaphor, she conforms to general fashion only when it happens not to be repugnant to private beauty.

Ridicule has always been the enemy of enthusiasm, and the only worthy opponent to ridicule is success.

A man he was to all the country dear, And passing rich with forty pounds a year.

To make a fine gentleman, several trades are required, but chiefly a barber.

Such dainties to them, their health it might hurt; It 's like sending them ruffles when wanting a shirt.