Memory is like all other human powers, with which no man can be satisfied who measures them by what he can conceive, or by what he can desire.

As to precedents, to be sure they will increase in course of time; but the more precedents there are, the less occasion is there for law; that is to say, the less occasion is there for investigating principles.

A Scotchman must be a very sturdy moralist who does not love Scotland better than truth.

Nothing is difficult, when gain and honour unite their influence.

A man ought to read just as inclination leads him, for what he reads as a task will do him little good.

A country gentleman should bring his lady to visit London as soon as he can, that they may have agreeable topicks for conversation when they are by themselves.

I never desire to converse with a man who has written more than he has read.