The greatest part of a writer's time is spent in reading in order to write. A man will turn over half a library to make a book.

A successful author is equally in danger of the diminution of his fame, whether he continues or ceases to write.

No wonder, Sir, that he is vain; a man who is perpetually flattered in every mode that can be conceived. So many bellows have blown the fire, that one wonders he is not by this time become a cinder.

A little knowledge is a dangerous thing - it only hastens fools to rush in where angels fear to tread.

While an author is yet living, we estimate his powers by his worst performance; and when he is dead, we rate him by his best.

If he does really think that there is no distinction between virtue and vice, why, sir, when he leaves our houses let us count our spoons.

As long as one lives he will have need of repentance.