The characteristic of Chaucer is intensity: of Spencer, remoteness: of Milton elevation and of Shakespeare everything.

The diffusion of taste is not the same thing as the improvement of taste.

There is nothing good to be had in the country, or if there is, they will not let you have it.

A proud man is satisfied with his own good opinion, and does not seek to make converts to it.

The way to get on in the world is to be neither more nor less wise, neither better nor worse than your neighbours.

Good temper is an estate for life.

Men of gravity are intellectual stammerers, whose thoughts move slowly.