We gain so much by quickness, and lose so much by slowness.

If I only have the will to be grateful, I am so.

There is more heroism in self-denial than in deeds of arms.

Life without literary studies is death.

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.

The stomach begs and clamors, and listens to no precepts. And yet it is not an obdurate creditor; for it is dismissed with small payment if you give it only what you owe, and not as much as you can.

The deferring of anger is the best antidote to anger.