As not every instance of similitude can be considered as a proof of imitation, so not every imitation ought to be stigmatised as plagiarism. The adoption of a noble sentiment, or the insertion of a borrowed ornament, may sometimes display so much judgment as will almost compensate for invention; and an inferior genius may, without any imputation of servility, pursue the paths of the ancients, provided he declines to tread in their footsteps.

Worth seeing, yes; but not worth going to see.

Politics are now nothing more than means of rising in the world. With this sole view do men engage in politics, and their whole conduct proceeds upon it.

Mutual complacency is the atmosphere of conjugal love.

The only end of writing is to enable readers better to enjoy life or better to endure it.

The first step to greatness is to be honest.

All the performances of human art, at which we look with praise or wonder, are instances of the resistless force of perseverance.