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.

If frugality were established in the state, and if our expenses were laid out to meet needs rather than superfluities of life, there might be fewer wants, and even fewer pleasures, but infinitely more happiness.

I was ever of the opinion, that the honest man who married and brought up a large family, did more service than he who continued single, and only talked of population.

There are some faults so nearly allied to excellence that we can scarce weed out the vice without eradicating the virtue.

To what fortuitous occurrence do we not owe every pleasure and convenience of our lives.

Every want that stimulates the breast becomes a source of pleasure when redressed.

A great source of calamity lies in regret and anticipation; therefore a person is wise who thinks of the present alone, regardless of the past or future.