The mind makes the nobleman, and uplifts the lowly to high degree.

Life is most delightful on the downward slope.

What must be shall be; and that which is a necessity to him that struggles, is little more than choice to him that is willing.

There is as much greatness of mind in the owning of a good turn as in the doing of it; and we must no more force a requital out of season than be wanting in it.

All I desire is, that my poverty may not be a burden to myself, or make me so to others; and that is the best state of fortune that is neither directly necessitous nor far from it. A mediocrity of fortune, with gentleness of mind, will preserve us from fear or envy; which is a desirable condition; for no man wants power to do mischief.

There is no benefit so large that malignity will not lessen it; none so narrow that a good interpretation will not enlarge it.

Let him who has granted a favour speak not of it; let him who has received one, proclaim it.