But to the particular species of excellence men are directed, not by an ascendant planet or predominating humour, but by the first book which they read, some early conversation which they heard, or some accident which excited ardour and emulation.

The law is the last result of human wisdom acting upon human experience for the benefit of the public.

A man who always talks for fame never can be pleasing. The man who talks to unburthen his mind is the man to delight you.

The heroes of literary history have been no less remarkable for what they have suffered than for what they have achieved.

There must always be a struggle between a father and son, while one aims at power and the other at independence.

Who drives fat oxen should himself be fat.

The wretched have no compassion, they can do good only from strong principles of duty.