He that writes may be considered as a kind of general challenger, whom every one has a right to attack; since he quits the common rank of life, steps forward beyond the lists, and offers his merit to the public judgement. To commence author is to claim praise, and no man can justly aspire to honour, but at the hazard of disgrace.

Spite and ill-nature are among the most expensive luxuries in life.

The dangers gather as the treasures rise.

The care of the critic should be to distinguish error from inability, faults of inexperience from defects of nature.

The relief of enemies has a tendency to unite mankind in fraternal affection.

There are three distinct kind of judges upon all new authors or productions; the first are those who know no rules, but pronounce entirely from their natural taste and feelings; the second are those who know and judge by rules; and the third are those who know, but are above the rules. These last are those you should wish to satisfy. Next to them rate the natural judges; but ever despise those opinions that are formed by the rules.

Where grief is fresh, any attempt to divert it only irritates.