Whoever desires, for his writings or himself, what none can reasonably contemn, the favour of mankind, must add grace to strength, and make his thoughts agreeable as well as useful. Many complain of neglect who never tried to attract regard.

I hate mankind, for I think myself one of the best of them, and I know how bad I am.

He that travels in theory has no inconveniences.

Timidity is a disease of the mind, obstinate and fatal; for a man once persuaded that any impediment is insuperable has given it, with respect to himself, that strength and weight which it had not before.

A man may write at any time, if he will set himself doggedly to it.

It is commonly a weak man who marries for love.

There is nothing against which an old man should be so much upon his guard as putting himself to nurse.