There are goods so opposed that we cannot seize both, but, by too much prudence, may pass between them at too great a distance to reach either.

If he does really think that there is no distinction between virtue and vice, why, sir, when he leaves our houses let us count our spoons.

Modern writers are the moons of literature; they shine with reflected light, with light borrowed from the ancients.

A country is in a bad state, which is governed only by laws; because a thousand things occur for which laws cannot provide, and where authority ought to interpose.

No money is better spent than what is laid out for domestic satisfaction.

The gratification of curiosity rather frees us from uneasiness than confers pleasure; we are more pained by ignorance than delighted by instruction. Curiosity is the thirst of the soul; it inflames and torments us, and makes us taste every thing with joy, however otherwise insipid, by which it may be quenched.

Apologies are seldom of any use.