The merit of all things lies in their difficulty.

Though why should we expect age to mellow us? If it isn't life's business to reward merit, why should it be life's business to give us warm, comfortable feelings towards its end? What possible evolutionary purpose could nostalgia serve?

When we overemphasise miracles we are saying people could get something without qualification and merit.

To sit down means to calm down without rush and fuss, stop and reflect, analyze all pros and cons, count all possible merits and faults

Beauties in vain their pretty eyes may roll; Charms strike the sight, but merit wins the soul.

Let none presume To wear an undeserved dignity. O that estates, degrees, and offices Were not derived corruptly, and that clear honour Were purchased by the merit of the wearer!

The world more often rewards the appearances of merit than merit itself.

The assumption of merit is easier, less embarrassing, and more effectual than the actual attainment of it.

Merit and knowledge will not gain hearts, though they will secure them when gained.

The erection of a monument is superfluous; our memory will endure if our lives have deserved it.