What is reading but silent conversation?

We cannot at once catch the applauses of the vulgar and expect the approbation of the wise.

A critic is never too severe when he only detects the faults of an author. But he is worse than too severe when, in consequence of this detection, be presumes to place himself on a level with genius.

The moderate are not usually the most sincere, for the same circumspection which makes them moderate makes them likewise retentive of what could give offence.

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.

Many laws as certainly make men bad, as bad men make many laws.

Moroseness is the evening of turbulence.