Oats. A grain, which in England is generally given to horses, but in Scotland supports the people.

Friendship may well deserve the sacrifice of pleasure, though not of conscience.

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

He that applauds him who does not deserve praise, is endeavoring to deceive the public; he that hisses in malice or sport, is an oppressor and a robber.

Most men think indistinctly, and therefore cannot speak with exactness . . .

Languages are the pedigree of nations.

A successful author is equally in danger of the diminution of his fame, whether he continues or ceases to write. The regard of the public is not to be kept but by tribute, and the remembrance of past service will quickly languish unless successive performances frequently revive it. Yet in every new attempt there is new hazard, and there are few who do not, at some unlucky time, injure their own characters by attempting to enlarge them.