If we consider the manner in which those who assume the office of directing the conduct of others execute their undertaking, it will not be very wonderful that their labours, however zealous or affectionate, are frequently useless. For what is the advice that is commonly given? A few general maxims, enforced with vehemence, and inculcated with importunity, but failing for want of particular reference and immediate application.

Sir, when you have seen one green field, you have seen all green fields. Let us walk down Cheapside.

Every period of life is obliged to borrow its happiness from time to come.

Levellers wish to level down as far as themselves; but they cannot bear levelling up to themselves.

Men know that women are an overmatch for them, and therefore they choose the weakest or the most ignorant. If they did not think so, they never could be afraid of women knowing as much as themselves.

Men seldom give pleasure when they are not pleased themselves.

Depend upon it that if a man talks of his misfortunes there is something in them that is not disagreeable to him; for where there is nothing but pure misery there never is any recourse to the mention of it.