Sir, sorrow is inherent in humanity. As you cannot judge two and two to be either five, or three, but certainly four, so, when comparing a worse present state with a better which is past, you cannot but feel sorrow. It is not cured by reason, but by the incursion of present objects, which bear out the past.

Life is but short; no time can be afforded but for the indulgence of real sorry, or contests upon questions seriously momentous. Let us not throw away any of our days upon useless resentment, or contend who shall hold out longest in stubborn malignity. It is best not to be angry; and best, in the next place, to be quickly reconciled.

Such seems to be the disposition of man, that whatever makes a distinction produces rivalry.

Men have been wise in many different modes; but they have always laughed the same way.

..to write and to live are very different. Many who praise virtue, do no more than praise it.

None are happy but by anticipation of change.

Leave to Heaven the measure and the choice.