Most men think indistinctly, and therefore cannot speak with exactness . . .

One cause, which is not always observed, of the insufficiency of riches, is that they very seldom make their owner rich.

He that teaches us anything which we knew not before is undoubtedly to be reverenced as a master.

Curiosity is, in great and generous minds, the first passion and the last; and perhaps always predominates in proportion to the strength of the contemplative faculties. He who easily comprehends all that is before him, and soon exhausts any single subject, is always eager for new inquiries; and in proportion as the intellectual eye takes in a wider prospect, it must be gratified with variety, by more rapid flights and bolder excursions.

To be happy at home is the ultimate result of all ambition.

Every one should consider himself as intrusted not only with his own conduct, but with that of others; and as accountable, not only for the duties which he neglects, or the crimes that he commits, but for that negligence and irregularity which he may encourage or inculcate. Every man, in whatever station, has, or endeavours to have his followers, admirers, and imitators, and has therefore the influence of his example to watch with care.

It is better to suffer wrong than to do it, and happier to be sometimes cheated than not to trust.