What does reason demand of a man? A very easy thing-to live in accord with his own nature.

In the meantime, cling tooth and nail to the following rule: not to give in to adversity, not to trust prosperity, and always take full note of fortune's habit of behaving just as she pleases.

I require myself not to be equal to the best, but to be better then the bad.

A great step towards independence is a good-humored stomach, one that is willing to endure rough treatment.

Four things does a reckless man gain who covets his neighbor's wife - demerit, an uncomfortable bed, thirdly, punishment, and lastly, hell.

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.

Every reign must submit to a greater reign.