No man is nobler born than another, unless he is born with better abilities and a more amiable disposition. They who make such a parade with their family pictures and pedigrees, are, properly speaking, rather to be called noted or notorious than noble persons. I thought it right to say this much, in order to repel the insolence of men who depend entirely upon chance and accidental circumstances for distinction, and not at all on public services and personal merit.

... frugality makes a poor man rich.

Virtue hath no virtue if it be not impugned; then appeareth how great it is, of what value and power it is, when by patience it approveth what it works.

Calamity is virtue's opportunity.

True love can fear no one.

If you wish another to keep your secret, first keep it to yourself.

Why do I not seek some real good; one which I could feel, not one which I could display?