I sometimes give myself admirable advice, but I am incapable of taking it.

Conscience

While conscience is our friend, all is at peace; however once it is offended, farewell to a tranquil mind.

Destiny

We are no more free agents than the queen of clubs when she victoriously takes prisoner the knave of hearts.

Human Nature

I have never, in all my various travels, seen but two sorts of people I mean men and women, who always have been, and ever will be, the same. The same vices and the same follies have been the fruit of all ages, though sometimes under different names.

Mediocrity

Take back the beauty and wit you bestow upon me; leave me my own mediocrity of agreeableness and genius, but leave me also my sincerity, my constancy, and my plain dealing; 'Tis all I have to recommend me to the esteem either of others or myself.

Modesty

Be plain in dress, and sober in your diet; In short, my dear, kiss me and be quiet.

Promotion

I don't say 'Tis impossible for an impudent man not to rise in the world, but a moderate merit with a large share of impudence is more probable to be advanced than the greatest qualifications without it.

Solitude

Solitude begets whimsies.

Wealth

'Tis a sort of duty to be rich, that it may be in one's power to do good, riches being another word for power.