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.

Friendship is not always the sequel of obligation.

In his comic scenes, Shakespeare seems to produce, without labor, what no labor can improve.

Towering is the confidence of twenty-one.

Assertion is not argument; to contradict the statement of an opponent is not proof that you are correct.

The maxim of Cleobulus, "Mediocrity is best," has been long considered a universal principle, extending through the whole compass of life and nature. The experience of every age seems to have given it new confirmation, and to show that nothing, however specious or alluring, is pursued with propriety or enjoyed with safety beyond certain limits.

To neglect at any time preparation for death is to sleep on our post at a siege; to omit it in old age is to sleep at an attack.