99 Quotes by Philip Stanhope, 4th Earl of Chesterfield

Our prejudices are our mistresses; reason is at best our wife, very often heard indeed, but seldom minded.

A young man, be his merit what it will, can never raise himself; but must, like the ivy round the oak, twine himself round some man of great power and interest.

In the mass of mankind, I fear, there is too great a majority of fools and knaves; who, singly from their number, must to a certain degree be respected, though they are by no means respectable.

Politeness is as much concerned in answering letters within a reasonable time, as it is in returning a bow, immediately.

Words, which are the dress of thoughts, deserve surely more care than clothes, which are only the dress of the person.

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.

Modesty is the only sure bait when you angle for praise.

Never seem wiser, nor more learned, than the people you are with. Wear your learning, like your watch, in a private pocket: and do not merely pull it out and strike it; merely to show that you have one.

If you can once engage people's pride, love, pity, ambition on your side, you need not fear what their reason can do against you.