People need to be reminded more often than they need to be instructed.

But though it cannot be reasonable not to gain happiness for fear of losing it, yet it must be confessed, that in proportion to the pleasure of possession, will be for some time our sorrow for the loss.

Every man speaks and writes with intent to be understood; and it can seldom happen but he that understands himself might convey his notions to another, if, content to be understood, he did not seek to be admired.

Whoever rises above those who once pleased themselves with equality, will have many malevolent gazers at his eminence.

When a friend is carried to his grave, we at once find excuses for every weakness, and palliation of every fault. We recollect a thousand endearments, which before glided off our minds without impression, a thousand favors unrepaid, a thousand duties unperformed; and wish, vainly wish, for his return, not so much that we may receive as that we may bestow happiness, and recompense that kindness which before we never understood.

The care of the critic should be to distinguish error from inability, faults of inexperience from defects of nature.

Patron: One who countenances, supports or protects. Commonly a wretch who supports with insolence, and is repaid in flattery.