Being of opinion that the doctrine and history of so extraordinary a sect as the Quakers were very well deserving the curiosity of every thinking man, I resolved to make myself acquainted with them, and for that purpose made a visit to one of the most eminent of that sect in England, who, after having been in trade for thirty years, had the wisdom to prescribe limits to his fortune, and to his desires, and withdrew to a small but pleasant retirement in the country, not many miles from London. Here it was that I made him my visit. His house was small, but neatly built, and with no other ornaments but those of decency and convenience.

Religion may be purified. This great work was begun two hundred years ago: but men can only bear light to come in upon them by degrees.

"A false science makes atheists, a true science prostrates men before the Deity"

Let us cultivate our garden.

Fools admire everything in an author of reputation.

Fools have a habit of believing that everything written by a famous author is admirable. For my part I read only to please myself and like only what suits my taste.

In every province, the chief occupations, in order of importance, are lovemaking, malicious gossip, and talking nonsense.

Our labour preserves us from three great evils -- weariness, vice, and want.

Even in those cities which seem to enjoy the blessings of peace, and where the arts florish, the inhabitants are devoured by envy, cares and anxieties, which are greater plagues than any experienced in a town when it is under siege.

If this is the best of possible worlds, what then are the others?