The assumption of merit is easier, less embarrassing, and more effectual than the actual attainment of it.

Belief is with them mechanical, voluntary: they believe what they are paid for - they swear to that which turns to account. Do you suppose, that after years spent in this manner, they have any feeling left answering to the difference between truth and falsehood?

Genius is native to the soil where it grows — is fed by the air, and warmed by the sun — and is not a hot - house plant or an exotic.

He will never have true friends who is afraid of making enemies.

We can scarcely hate anyone that we know.

Envy is the deformed and distorted offspring of egotism; and when we reflect on the strange and disproportioned character of the parent, we cannot wonder at the perversity and waywardness of the child.

Power is pleasure; and pleasure sweetens pain.