A simile, to be perfect, must both illustrate and ennoble the subject; must show it to the understanding in a clearer view, and display it to the fancy with greater dignity; but either of these qualities may be sufficient to recommend it.... That it may be complete, it is required to exhibit, independently of its references, a pleasing image; for a simile is said to be a short episode.

The good of our present state is merely comparative, and the evil which every man feels will be sufficient to disturb and harass him if he does not know how much he escapes.

It is unpleasing to represent our affairs to our own disadvantage; yet it is necessary to shew the evils which we desire to be removed.

Of the blessings set before you make your choice, and be content.

Words are daughters of earth but ideas are sons of heaven.

How is it that we hear the loudest yelps for liberty among the drivers of negroes?

He that shall peruse the political pamphlets of any past reign will wonder why they were so eagerly read, or so loudly praised.