No one ever became great by imitation.

Commerce can never be at a stop while one man wants what another can supply; and credit will never be denied, while it is likely to be repaid with profit.

A thousand years may elapse before there shall appear another man with a power of versification equal to that of Pope.

We must consider how very little history there is--I mean real, authentic history. That certain kings reigned and certain battles were fought, we can depend upon as true; but all the coloring, all the philosophy, of history is conjecture.

I do not much wish well to discoveries, for I am always afraid they will end in conquest and robbery.

I am always for getting a boy forward in his learning, for that is sure good. I would let him at first read any English book which happens to engage his attention; because you have done a great deal when you have brought him to have entertainment from a book. He'll get better books afterwards.

Every other author may aspire to praise; the lexicographer can only hope to escape reproach.