It is always right to detect a fraud, and to perceive a folly; but it is very often wrong to expose either. A man of business should always have his eyes open, but must often seem to have them shut.
Custom has made dancing sometimes necessary for a young man; therefore mind it while you learn it, that you may learn to do it well, and not be ridiculous, though in a ridiculous act.
Aim at perfection in everything, though in most things it is unattainable. However, they who aim at it, and persevere, will come much nearer to it than those whose laziness and despondency make them give it up as unattainable.
Young men are apt to think themselves wise enough, as drunken men are apt to think themselves sober enough.
Patience is the most necessary quality for business, many a man would rather you heard his story than grant his request.
Wear your learning like your watch, in a private pocket; and do not pull it out, and strike it, merely to show that you have one.
Gratitude is a burden upon our imperfect nature, and we are but too willing to ease ourselves of it, or at least to lighten it as much as we can.
Our prejudices are our mistresses; reason is at best our wife, very often heard indeed, but seldom minded.