If a man begins to read in the middle of a book, and feels an inclination to go on, let him not quit it to go to the beginning. He may perhaps not feel again the inclination.

Every man speaks and writes with intent to be understood; and it can seldom happen but he that understands himself might convey his notions to another, if, content to be understood, he did not seek to be admired.

A man seldom thinks with more earnestness of anything than he does of his dinner.

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

Leisure and curiosity might soon make great advances in useful knowledge, were they not diverted by minute emulation and laborious trifles.

Levellers wish to level down as far as themselves; but they cannot bear levelling up to themselves.

Resentment gratifies him who intended an injury, and pains him unjustly who did not intend it.