I never make the mistake of arguing with people for whose opinions I have no respect.
Our sympathy is cold to the relation of distant misery.
Beauty is an outward gift which is seldom despised, except by those to whom it has been refused.
But the power of instruction is seldom of much efficacy, except in those happy dispositions where it is almost superfluous.
History is indeed little more than the register of the crimes, follies, and misfortunes of mankind.
Of the various forms of government which have prevailed in the world, an hereditary monarchy seems to present the fairest scope for ridicule.
The principles of a free constitution are irrecoverably lost, when the legislative power is nominated by the executive.
Hope, the best comfort of our imperfect condition.
Unprovided with original learning, unformed in the habits of thinking, unskilled in the arts of composition, I resolved to write a book.
I was never less alone than when by myself.
History is little more than the register of the crimes, follies, and misfortunes of mankind.
Their poverty secured their freedom, since our desires and our possessions are the strongest fetters of despotism.