The paths of virtue, though seldom those of worldly greatness, are always those of pleasantness and peace.

The pith of conversation does not consist in exhibiting your own superior knowledge on matters of small consequence, but in enlarging, improving and correcting the information you possess by the authority of others.

It is more difficult to look upon victory than upon battle.

The time which passes over our heads so imperceptibly makes the same gradual change in habits, manners and character, as in personal appearance. At the revolution of every five years we find ourselves another and yet the same;--there is a change of views, and no less of the light in which we regard them; a change of motives as well as of action.

One or two of these scoundrel statesmen should be shot once a-year, just to keep the others on their good behavior.

I like a highland friend who will stand by me not only when I am in the right, but when I am a little in the wrong.

Respect was mingled with surprise, And the stern joy which warriors feel In foemen worthy of their steel.