I strove with none; for none was worth my strife.

There is no more certain sign of a narrow mind, of stupidity, and of arrogance, than to stand aloof from those who think differently from us.

Heat and animosity, contest and conflict, may sharpen the wits, although they rarely do; they never strengthen the understanding, clear the perspicacity, guide the judgment, or improve the heart.

The flame of anger, bright and brief, sharpens the barb of love.

Solitude is the audience-chamber of God.

Politeness is not always a sign of wisdom; but the want of it always leaves room for a suspicion of folly, if folly and imprudence are the same.

Ambition does not see the earth she treads on: The rock and the herbage are of one substance to her.