Invention is an Heroic thing, and plac'd above the reach of a low, and vulgar Genius. It requires an active, a bold, a nimble, a restless mind: a thousand difficulties must be contemn'd with which a mean heart would be broken: many attempts must be made to no purpose: much Treasure must sometimes be scatter'd without any return: much violence, and vigour of thoughts must attend it: some irregularities, and excesses must be granted it, that would hardly be pardon'd by the severe Rules of Prudence.
Thomas SpratPassion is the great mover and spring of the soul. When menโs passions are strongest, they may have great and noble effects; but they are then also apt to fall into the greatest miscarriages.
Thomas Sprat