To make punishments efficacious, two things are necessary. They must never be disproportioned to the offence, and they must be certain.

Distinction is an eminence that is attained but too frequently at the expense of a fireside.

Neither praise nor blame is the object of true criticism. Justly to discriminate, firmly to establish, wisely to prescribe and honestly to award - these are the true aims and duties of criticism.

He who would acquire fame must not show himself afraid of censure. The dread of censure is the death of genius.

The proverb answers where the sermon fails.

Our true acquisitions lie only in our charities - we gain only as we give.

Not in sorrow freely is never to open the bosom to the sweets of the sunshine.