Among the lower classes of mankind there will be found very little desire of any other knowledge than what may contribute immediately to the relief of some pressing uneasiness, or the attainment of some near advantage.

Language is only the instrument of science, and words are but the signs of ideas.

Men are generally idle, and ready to satisfy themselves, and intimidate the industry of others, by calling that impossible which is only difficult.

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

The usual fortune of complaint is to excite contempt more than pity.

I hope I shall never be deterred from detecting what I think a cheat, by the menaces of a ruffian.

When once the forms of civility are violated, there remains little hope of return to kindness or decency.