“True happiness arises, in the first place, from the enjoyment of one's self, and in the next, from the friendship and conversation of a few select companions
“The important question is not what will yield to man a few scattered pleasures, but what will render his life happy on the whole amount
“I have come to the conclusion never again to think of marrying, and for this reason, I can never be satisfied with anyone who would be blockhead enough to have me
“Reflect upon your present blessings, of which every man has plenty; not on your past misfortunes, of which all men have some
“You shall find out how salt is the taste of another man's bread, and how hard is the way up and down another man's stairs
“It is vain to say human beings ought to be satisfied with tranquility; they must have action; and they will make it if they cannot find it
“The secret of joy in work is contained in one word: excellence. To know how to do something well is to enjoy it
“Compromise used to mean that half a loaf was better than no bread. Among modern statesmen it really seems to mean that half a loaf is better than a whole loaf
“Give me books, fruit, French wine and fine weather and a little music out of doors, played by someone I do not know
“Nothing is to me more distasteful than that entire complacency and satisfaction which beam in the countenances of a new-married couple
“When I have found intense pain relieved, a weary brain soothed,and calm refreshing sleep obtained by a cigar, I have felt grateful to God, and have blessed His name