“It is vain to say human beings ought to be satisfied with tranquility; they must have action; and they will make it if they cannot find it”

“A contented mind is the greatest blessing a man can enjoy in this world”

“I have come to the conclusion never again to think of marrying, and for this reason, I can never be satisfied with anyone who would be blockhead enough to have me”

“Reflect upon your present blessings, of which every man has plenty; not on your past misfortunes, of which all men have some”

“You shall find out how salt is the taste of another man's bread, and how hard is the way up and down another man's stairs”

“The secret of joy in work is contained in one word: excellence. To know how to do something well is to enjoy it”