I think hearts are very much like glasses. If they do not break with the first ring, they usually last a considerable time.

One would think that an unsuccessful volume was like a degree in the school of reviewing. One unread work makes the judge bitter enough; but a second failure, and he is quite desperate in his damnation. I do believe one half of the injustice - the severity of 'the ungentle craft' originates in its own want of success: they cannot forgive the popularity which has passed them over ...

it is a curious fact, but one which all experience owns, that people do not desire so much to appear better, as to appear different from what they really are.

I do not think that life has a suspense more sickening than that of expecting a letter which does not come.

I would give worlds, could I believe One-half that is profess'd me; Affection! could I think it Thee, When Flattery has caress'd me.

It is amazing how much a thought expands and refines by being put into speech: I should think it could hardly know itself.