The vain man makes a merit of misfortune, and triumphs in his disgrace.

To think ill of mankind and not wish ill to them, is perhaps the highest wisdom and virtue.

That which is not, shall never be; that which is, shall never cease to be. To the wise, these truths are self-evident.

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.

I can enjoy society in a room; but out of doors, nature is company enough for me

Friendship is cemented by interest, vanity, or the want of amusement; it seldom implies esteem, or even mutual regard.

Our opinions are not our own, but in the power of sympathy. If a person tells us a palpable falsehood, we not only dare not contradict him, but we dare hardly disbelieve him to his face. A lie boldly uttered has the effect of truth for the instant.