Religion is the eldest sister of philosophy: on whatever subjects they may differ, it is unbecoming in either to quarrel, and most so about their inheritance.
Friendship may sometimes step a few paces in advance of truth.
We may receive so much light as not to see, and so much philosophy as to be worse than foolish.
Every great writer is a writer of history, let him treat on almost any subject he may.
Where power is absent we may find the robe of genius, but we miss the throne.
It often comes into my head That we may dream when we are dead, But I am far from sure we do. O that it were so! then my rest Would be indeed among the blest; I should for ever dream of you.
Friendship is a vase, which, when it is flawed by heat, or violence, or accident, may as well be broken at once; it can never be trusted after.
Heat and animosity, contest and conflict, may sharpen the wits, although they rarely do; they never strengthen the understanding, clear the perspicacity, guide the judgment, or improve the heart.