Slavery is now nowhere more patiently endured, than in countries once inhabited by the zealots of liberty.

By those who look close to the ground dirt will be seen. I hope I see things from a greater distance.

Norway, too, has noble prospects; and Lapland is remarkable for prodigious noble wild prospects. But, Sir, let me tell you, the noblest prospect which a Scotchman ever sees is the high road that leads him to England!

Vulgar and inactive minds confound familiarity with knowledge, and conceive themselves informed of the whole nature of things, when they are shown their form or told their use.

It generally happens that assurance keeps an even pace with ability.

Almost every man wastes part of his life attempting to display qualities which he does not possess.

Life is surely given us for higher purposes than to gather what our ancestors have wisely thrown away, and to learn what is of no value but because it has been forgotten.