By one delay after another they spin out their whole lives, till there's no more future left for them.

To be longing for this thing to-day and for that thing to-morrow; to change likings for loathings, and to stand wishing and hankering at a venture--how is it possible for any man to be at rest in this fluctuant, wandering humor and opinion?

Tis not necessity, but opinion, that makes men miserable; and when we come to be fancy-sick, there's no cure.

There are braying men in the world, as well as braying asses; for what is loud and senseless talking any other than away of braying?

The blessings of fortune are the lowest; the next are the bodily advantages of strength and health; but the superlative blessings, in fine, are those of the mind.

There is no creature so contemptible but by resolution may gain his point.

He that would live clear of envy must lay his finger on his mouth, and keep his hand out of the ink-pot.