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.

Every old man complains of the growing depravity of the world, of the petulance and insolence of the rising generation.

It is however, reasonable, to have perfection in our eye; that we may always advance towards it, though we know it never can be reached.

There is nothing which has yet been contrived by man, by which so much happiness is produced as by a good tavern.

It is not difficult to conceive, however, that for many reasons a man writes much better than he lives. For without entering into refined speculations, it may be shown much easier to design than to perform. A man proposes his schemes of life in a state of abstraction and disengagement, exempt from the enticements of hope, the solicitations of affection, the importunities of appetite, or the depressions of fear.

Men become friends by a community of pleasures.

Few moments are more pleasing than those in which the mind is concerting measures for a new undertaking.