States, like men, have their growth, their manhood, their decrepitude, their decay.

It is as wise to moderate our belief as our desires.

Cruelty, if we consider it as a crime, is the greatest of all; if we consider it as a madness, we are equally justifiable in applying to it the readiest and the surest means of oppression.

It appears to be among the laws of nature, that the mighty of intellect should be pursued and carped by the little, as the solitary flight of one great bird is followed by the twittering petulance of many smaller.

Goodness does not more certainly make men happy than happiness makes them good.

No friendship is so cordial or so delicious as that of girl for girl; no hatred so intense and immovable as that of woman for woman.

He who brings ridicule to bear against truth finds in his hand a blade without a hilt.