It is true that of far the greater part of things, we must content ourselves with such knowledge as description may exhibit, or analogy supply; but it is true likewise, that these ideas are always incomplete, and that at least, till we have compared them with realities, we do not know them to be just. As we see more, we become possessed of more certainties, and consequently gain more principles of reasoning, and found a wider base of analogy.

In this work are exhibited, in a very high degree, the two most engaging powers of an author. New things are made familiar, and familiar things are made new.

We are inclined to believe those whom we do not know because they have never deceived us.

The habit of looking on the bright side of every event is worth more than a thousand pounds a year.

Few enterprises of great labor or hazard would be undertaken if we had not the power of magnifying the advantages we expect from them.

Faction seldom leaves a man honest, however it might find him.

Nothing is more idle than to inquire after happiness, which nature has kindly placed within our reach.