Great abilities are not requisite for an Historian; for in historical composition, all the greatest powers of the human mind are quiescent. He has facts ready to his hand; so there is no exercise of invention. Imagination is not required in any degree; only about as much as is used in the lowest kinds of poetry. Some penetration, accuracy, and coloring, will fit a man for the task, if he can give the application which is necessary.

It is wonderful what a difference learning makes upon people even in the common intercourse of life, which does not appear to be much connected with it.

Power is not sufficient evidence of truth.

Always, Sir, set a high value on spontaneous kindness.

The great source of pleasure is variety.

God Himself, sir, does not propose to judge a man until his life is over. Why should you and I?

In all political regulations, good cannot be complete, it can only be predominant.