The wretched have no compassion, they can do good only from strong principles of duty.

The happiest conversation is that of which nothing is distinctly remembered, but a general effect of pleasing impression.

If a man does not make new acquaintances as he advances through life, he will soon find himself left alone. A man, sir, should keep his friendship in a constant repair.

Men have solicitude about fame; and the greater share they have of it, the more afraid they are of losing it.

Fly-fishing may be a very pleasant amusement; but angling or float fishing I can only compare to a stick and a string, with a worm at one end and a fool at the other.

The man who feels himself ignorant should, at least, be modest.

As I know more of mankind I expect less of them, and am ready now to call a man a good man upon easier terms than I was formerly.