I know of no manner of speaking so offensive as that of giving praise, and closing it with an exception.
Richard SteeleIt is a very melancholy reflection that men are usually so weak that it is absolutely necessary for them to know sorrow and pain to be in their right senses.
Richard SteeleWhenever you commend, add your reasons for doing so; it is this which distinguishes the approbation of a man of sense from the flattery of sycophants and admiration of fools.
Richard Steele