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.

An Italian philosopher said that "time was his estate"; an estate indeed which will produce nothing without cultivation, but will always abundantly repay the labors of industry, and generally satisfy the most extensive desires, if no part of it be suffered to lie in waste by negligence, to be overrun with noxious plants, or laid out for show rather than for use.

Those who attain any excellence, commonly spend life in one pursuit; for excellence is not often gained upon easier terms.

That observation which is called knowledge of the world will be found much more frequently to make men cunning than good.

The chief glory of every people arises from its authors.

The hopes of zeal are not wholly groundless.

The misery of man proceeds not from any single crush of overwhelming evil, but from small vexations continually repeated.