People are rarely grateful for a demonstration of their credulity.

One can seldom admire what one loves.

To be capable of respect is, in these days, almost as rare as to be worthy of it.

Those of our pleasures which come most rarely give the greatest delight.

such cases it is vital to remember that scarce things do not taste or feel or sound or ride or work any better because of their limited availability.

Few people have the wisdom to prefer the criticism that would do them good, to the praise that deceives them.

We have been but little molested, for we have not the things which most men value.

Very few reputations are gained by unsullied virtue.

What is important is seldom urgent and what is urgent is seldom important.

Let not things, because they are common, enjoy for that the less share of our consideration.

People seldom see the halting and painful steps by which the most insignificant success is achieved.

First things first and last things not at all.

5454. We seldom find out that we are flattered.

Among the smaller duties of life I hardly know any one more important than that of not praising where praise is not due.