Of all kinds of credulity, the most obstinate is that of party-spirit; of men, who, being numbered, they know not why, in any party, resign the use of their own eyes and ears, and resolve to believe nothing that does not favor those whom they profess to follow.

A decent provision for the poor is the true test of civilization.

Genius, that power which constitutes a poet; that quality without which judgment is cold, and knowledge is inert; that energy which collects, combines, amplifies and animates.

Curiosity is one of the most permanent and certain characteristics of a vigorous intellect.

I look upon every day to be lost, in which I do not make a new acquaintance.

Let him go abroad to a distant country; let him go to some place where he is not known. Don't let him go to the devil, where he is known.

A coxcomb is ugly all over with the effectation of a fine gentleman.