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.

Such is the uncertainty of human affairs, that security and despair are equal follies; and as it is presumption and arrogance to anticipate triumphs, it is weakness and cowardice to prog-nosticate miscarriages.

He that embarks on the voyage of life will always wish to advance rather by the impulse of the wind than the strokes of the oar; and many fold in their passage; while they lie waiting for the gale.

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.

Many falsehoods are passing into uncontradicted history.

Our senses, our appetite, and our passions are our lawful and faithful guides in things that relate solely to this life.

Discord generally operates in little things; it is inflamed ... by contrariety of taste oftener than principles.