For the rich men without scruple drew the estate into their own hands, excluding the rightful heirs from their succession; and all the wealth being centred upon the few, the generality were poor and miserable. Honourable pursuits, for which there was no longer leisure, were neglected; the state was filled with sordid business, and with hatred and envy of the rich.

It is no flattery to give a friend a due character; for commendation is as much the duty of a friend as reprehension.

Friendship requires a steady, constant, and unchangeable character, a person that is uniform in his intimacy.

Come back with your shield - or on it

Lying is a most disgraceful vice; it first despises God, and then fears men.

Wisdom is neither gold, nor silver, nor fame, nor wealth, nor health, nor strength, nor beauty.

Proper listening is the foundation of proper living.