Horace Walpole
Horace Walpole
Horatio Walpole, 4th Earl of Orford— also known as Horace Walpole — was an English art historian, man of letters, antiquarian and Whig politician...
NationalityEnglish
ProfessionHistorian
Date of Birth24 September 1717
comedy english-author life tragedy
Life is a tragedy for those who feel, but a comedy to those who think.
careless monarch nonsense
A careless song, with a little nonsense in it, now and then, does not misbecome a monarch
event prophets prove sure wisest
Prognostics do not always prove prophecies, - at least the wisest prophets make sure of the event first
error last precedes science
In all science error precedes the truth, and it is better it should go first than last
air vulgar nations
I do not dislike the French from the vulgar antipathy between neighboring nations, but for their insolent and unfounded air of superiority.
bad-company obliged ifs
I shun authors, and would never have been one myself, if it obliged me to keep such bad company.
according act best bless common given goodness happiness philosophy submit wisdom
To act with common sense according to the moment, is the best wisdom I know; and the best philosophy is to do one's duties, take the world as it comes, submit respectfully to one's lot; bless the goodness that has given us so much happiness with it,
truth lying justice
Justice is rather the activity of truth, than a virtue in itself. Truth tells us what is due to others, and justice renders that due. Injustice is acting a lie.
friendship dog betrayed
I know that I have had friends who would never have vexed or betrayed me, if they had walked on all fours.
foolish reader
Foolish writers and readers are created for each other.
funny-friend people want
Nine-tenths of the people were created so you would want to be with the other tenth.
taken soul melancholy
He was persuaded he could know no happiness but in the society of one with whom he could for ever indulge the melancholy that had taken possession of his soul.
weed garden people
When people will not weed their own minds, they are apt to be overrun by nettles.
wise half done
Who has begun has half done. Have the courage to be wise. Begin!