There are occasions on which it is noble to dare to stand alone. To be pious among infidels, to be disinterested in a time of general venality, to lead a life of virtue and reason in the midst of sensualists, is a proof of a mind intent on nobler things than the praise or blame of men, of a soul fixed in the contemplation of the highest good, and superiour to the tyranny of custom and example.

Abstinence is as easy to me as temperance would be difficult.

The natural progress of the works of men is from rudeness to convenience, from convenience to elegance, and from elegance to nicety.

In the motive lies the good or ill.

There may be community of material possessions, but there can never be community of love or esteem.

Ah! Sir, a boy's being flogged is not so severe as a man's having the hiss of the world against him.

He that will enjoy the brightness of sunshine, must quit the coolness of the shade.