We are the creatures of imagination, passion, and self-will, more than of reason or even of self-interest. Even in the common transactions and daily intercourse of life, we are governed by whim, caprice, prejudice, or accident. The falling of a teacup puts us out of temper for the day; and a quarrel that commenced about the pattern of a gown may end only with our lives.

Reflection makes men cowards.

Of all eloquence a nickname is the most concise; of all arguments the most unanswerable.

The fear of approaching death, which in youth we imagine must cause inquietude to the aged, is very seldom the source of much uneasiness.

A man who is determined never to move out of the beaten road cannot lose his way.

An honest man speaks the truth, though it may give offence; a vain man, in order that it may.

Familiarity confounds all traits of distinction; interest and prejudice take away the power of judging.