Humour is the describing the ludicrous as it is in itself; wit is the exposing it, by comparing or contrasting it with something else. Humour is, as it were, the growth of nature and accident; wit is the product of art and fancy.

A woman's vanity is interested in making the object of her choice the god of her idolatry.

To be remembered after we are dead, is but poor recompense for being treated with contempt while we are living.

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

If we wish to know the force of human genius, we should read Shakespeare. If we wish to see the insignificance of human learning, we may study his commentators.

Poverty is the test of civility and the touchstone of friendship.

Rules and models destroy genius and art.