Great men lose somewhat of their greatness by being near us; ordinary men gain much.

Democracy is always the work of kings. Ashes, which in themselves are sterile, fertilize the land they are cast upon.

Friendship may sometimes step a few paces in advance of truth.

Two evils, of almost equal weight, may befall the man of erudition; never to be listened to, and to be listened to always.

Study is the bane of childhood, the oil of youth, the indulgence of adulthood, and a restorative in old age.

The only effect of public punishment is to show the rabble how bravely it can be borne; and that every one who hath lost a toe-nail hath suffered worse.

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