The greatest grossness sometimes accompanies the greatest refinement, as a natural relief.

Common sense, to most people, is nothing more than their own opinions.

In public speaking, we must appeal either to the prejudices of others, or to the love of truth and justice. If we think merely of displaying our own ability, we shall ruin every cause we undertake.

It is a false principle that because we are entirely occupied with ourselves, we must equally occupy the thoughts of others. The contrary inference is the fair one.

Art is the microscope of the mind, which sharpens the wit as the other does the sight; and converts every object into a little universe in itself. Art may be said to draw aside the veil from nature. To those who are perfectly unskilled in the practice, unimbued with the principles of art, most objects present only a confused mass.

One is always more vexed at losing a game of any sort by a single hole or ace, than if one has never had a chance of winning it.

The person whose doors I enter with most pleasure, and quit with most regret, never did me the smallest favor.