Books have always a secret influence on the understanding; we cannot at pleasure obliterate ideas; he that reads books of science, thogh without any fixed desire of improvement, will grow more knowing.

Few have abilities so much needed by the rest of the world as to be caressed on their own terms; and he that will not condescend to recommend himself by external embellishments must submit to the fate of just sentiment meanly expressed, and be ridiculed and forgotten before he is understood.

Authors and lovers always suffer some infatuation, from which only absence can set them free.

Language is the dress of thought; every time you talk your mind is on parade.

A coxcomb is ugly all over with the effectation of a fine gentleman.

To be flattered is grateful, even when we know that our praises are not believed by those who pronounce them; for they prove, at least, our power, and show that our favour is valued, since it is purchased by the meanness of falsehood.

I had rather see the portrait of a dog that I know, than all the allegorical paintings they can show me in the world.