Quotes Library

April 27, 2025

A decent provision for the poor, is the true test of civilization.

Samuel Johnson (1709-1784), English poet, critic, lexicographer, in James Boswell, Life of Samuel Johnson (1791) 1770, Jay p.197

Do the poor inspire compassion, or are they just annoying? Shiftless scammers?

Johnson puts it well, and simply so.

July 12, 2025

1 year ago

Do not let the ingratitude of many men deter you from doing good to others.

May 4, 2025

1 year ago

There is nothing more tyrannical than a strong popular feeling among a democratic people.

February 26, 2025

1 year ago

[On Winston Churchill] Restless, almost intolerably so, without capacity for sustained and unexcited labour, egotistical,

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