Prudence operates on life in the same manner as rule of composition; it produces vigilance rather than elevation; rather prevents loss than procures advantage; and often miscarriages, but seldom reaches either power or honor.

That observation which is called knowledge of the world will be found much more frequently to make men cunning than good.

Don't, Sir, accustom yourself to use big words for little matters.

Human happiness has always its abatements; the brightest sunshine of success is not without a cloud.

Enlarge my life with multitude of days, In health, in sickness, thus the suppliant prays; Hides from himself his state, and shuns to know, That life protracted is protracted woe. Time hovers o'er, impatient to destroy, And shuts up all the passages of joy.

The violence of war admits no distinction; the lance, that is lifted at guilt and power, will sometimes fall on innocence and gentleness.

Friendship is not always the sequel of obligation.