The good of our present state is merely comparative, and the evil which every man feels will be sufficient to disturb and harass him if he does not know how much he escapes.

There is no idleness, by which we are so easily seduced, as that which dignifies itself by the appearance of business, and by making the loiterer imagine that he has something to do which must not be neglected, keeps him in perpetual agitation, and hurries him rapidly from place to place.

No one will persist long in helping someone who will not help themselves.

Human life is everywhere a state in which much is to be endured, and little to be enjoyed.

He who is extravagant will quickly become poor; and poverty will enforce dependence, and invite corruption.

Sir, you have but two topics, yourself and me. I am sick of both.

The belief of immortality is impressed upon all men, and all men act under an impression of it, however they may talk, and though, perhaps, they may be scarcely sensible of it.