In order that all men may be taught to speak truth, it is necessary that all likewise should learn to hear it; for no species of falsehood is more frequent than flattery, to which the coward is betrayed by fear, the dependent by interest, and the friend by tenderness: those who are neither servile nor timorous are yet desirous to bestow pleasure; and, while unjust demands of praise continue to be made, there will always be some whom hope, fear, or kindness will dispose to pay them.

Pride is seldom delicate, it will please itself with very mean advantages; and envy feels not its own happiness, but when it may be compared with the misery of others

None of the projects or designs which exercise the mind of man are equally subject to obstructions and disappointments with the pursuit of fame.

There are innumerable questions to which the inquisitive mind can in this state receive no answer: Why do you and I exist? Why was this world created? Since it was to be created, why was it not created sooner?

When men come to like a sea-life, they are not fit to live on land.

From thee, great God, we spring, to thee we tend,- Path, motive, guide, original, and end.

Without frugality none can be rich, and with it very few would be poor.