Extended empires are like expanded gold, exchanging solid strength for feeble splendor.

Whosoever shall look heedfully upon those who are eminent for their riches will not think their condition such as that he should hazard his quiet, and much less his virtue, to obtain it, for all that great wealth generally gives above a moderate fortune is more room for the freaks of caprice, and more privilege for ignorance and vice, a quicker succession of flatteries, and a larger circle of voluptuousness.

Those who do not feel pain seldom think that it is felt.

Our senses, our appetite, and our passions are our lawful and faithful guides in things that relate solely to this life.

A man may write at any time, if he will set himself doggedly to it.

When I first collected these authorities, I was desirous that every quotation should be useful to some other end than the illustration of a word; I therefore extracted from philosophers principles of science; from historians remarkable facts; from chymists complete processes; from divines striking exhortations; and from poets beautiful descriptions.

By forbearing to do what may innocently be done, we may add hourly new vigor to resolution.