The faults of a man loved or honoured sometimes steal secretly and imperceptibly upon the wise and virtuous, but by injudicious fondness or thoughtless vanity are adopted with design.

Of the present state, whatever it be, we feel and are forced to confess the misery; yet when the same state is again at a distance, imagination paints it as desirable.

Games are good or bad as to their nature; all may be perverted.

Age is rarely despised but when it is, contemptible.

Every other author may aspire to praise; the lexicographer can only hope to escape reproach.

I do not much wish well to discoveries, for I am always afraid they will end in conquest and robbery.

The world is not yet exhausted: let me see something tomorrow which I never saw before.