222 Quotes by John Gay

Envy's a sharper spur than pay.

Lest men suspect your tale untrue, Keep probability in view.

Of all mechanics, of all servile handycrafts-men, a gamester is the vilest. But yet, as many of the quality are of the profession, he is admitted amongst the politest company.

Fair words cost nothing.

The careful insect 'midst his works I view, Now from the flowers exhaust the fragrant dew, With golden treasures load his little thighs, And steer his distant journey through the skies.

Can you support the expense of a husband, hussy, in gaming, drinking and whoring? Have you money enough to carry on the daily quarrels of man and wife about who shall squander most?

When we risk no contradiction, It prompts the tongue to deal in fiction.

The fly that sips treacle is lost in the sweets.

By outward show let's not be cheated; An ass should like an ass be treated.