I never make the mistake of arguing with people for whose opinions I have no respect.

Let us read with method, and propose to ourselves an end to which our studies may point. The use of reading is to aid us in thinking

All that is human must retrograde if it does not advance

As long as mankind shall continue to bestow more liberal applause on their destroyers than on their benefactors, the thirst of military glory will ever be the vice of the most exalted characters

History is indeed little more than the register of the crimes, follies, and misfortunes of mankind

History is little more than the register of the crimes, follies, and misfortunes of mankind

Revenge is profitable, gratitude is expensive

Of the various forms of government which have prevailed in the world, an hereditary monarchy seems to present the fairest scope for ridicule

Books are those faithful mirrors that reflect to our mind the minds of sages and heroes

Beauty is an outward gift which is seldom despised, except by those to whom it has been refused