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.

Spite and ill-nature are among the most expensive luxuries in life.

Faults and defects every work of man must have.

For sorrow there is no remedy provided by nature; it is often occasioned by accidents irreparable, and dwells upon objects that have lost or changed their existence; it requires what it cannot hope, that the laws of the universe should be repealed; that the dead should return, or the past should be recalled.

Questioning is not the mode of conversation among gentlemen.

Confidence is a plant of slow growth; especially in an aged bosom

His death eclipsed the gayety of nations, and impoverished the public stock of harmless pleasure.