A Lacedæmonian, being asked why Sparta was unfortified, said, Do not…

Quote byRichard Duppa · 1770–1831

Commonly attributed — not confirmed in an authoritative edition. Cited on Wikiquote to: Aphorisms translated from the Greek, No. 23.

English (original)

A Lacedæmonian, being asked why Sparta was unfortified, said, Do not deceive yourself; it is fortified by the virtues of the inhabitants.

— Richard Duppa

By studying trifles two of the best things in the world are neglected, knowledge, and your own understanding.

Who talks from thought and reflection is rarely eloquent; Madame de Staël was the only exception I ever knew to that rule.

We are most pleased with the happiness of others when it arises out of habits similar to our own.

All like to be pleased, few to be instructed; hence a severe moralist is rarely agreeable, while a man of detestable qualities may be well received.

He who praises another, and falls short of what is expected, had better have said nothing.

To oppose a favourite prejudice is to risk odium, if you succeed, and contempt, if you fail.