Nobody can write the life of a man but those who have eat and drunk and lived in social intercourse with him.

No man can fall into contempt but those who deserve it.

There are occasions on which it is noble to dare to stand alone. To be pious among infidels, to be disinterested in a time of general venality, to lead a life of virtue and reason in the midst of sensualists, is a proof of a mind intent on nobler things than the praise or blame of men, of a soul fixed in the contemplation of the highest good, and superiour to the tyranny of custom and example.

All is not gold that glitters, as we have often been told; and the adage is verified in your place and my favour; but if what happens does not make us richer, we must bid it welcome, if it makes us wiser.

The work of a correct and regular writer is a garden accurately formed and diligently planted, varied with shades, and scented with flowers.

I am always sorry when any language is lost, because languages are the pedigrees of nations.

Misfortunes should always be expected.