“Common sense (which, in truth, is very uncommon) is the best sense I know of: abide by it; it will counsel you best.”

“Ridicule is the best test of truth.”

“Man cannot discover new oceans unless he has the courage to lose sight of the shore for a very long time.”

“A weak mind is like a microscope, which magnifies trifling things, but cannot receive great ones.”

“Words are the dress of thoughts; which should no more be presented in rags, tatters, and dirt than your person should.”

“Never seem more learned than the people you are with. Wear your learning like a pocket watch and keep it hidden. Do not pull it out to count the hours, but give the time when you are asked.”

“Be wiser than other people if you can; but do not tell them so.”