At least I have the modesty to admit that lack of modesty is one of my failings

At least I have the modesty to admit that lack of modesty is one of my failings

Nothing can atone for the lack of modesty; without which beauty is ungraceful and wit detestable.

Nothing can atone for the lack of modesty; without which beauty is ungraceful and wit detestable.

Immodest words admit of no defence;
For want of decency is want of sense.

Immodest words admit of no defence;
For want of decency is want of sense.

It rarely adds anything to say, "In my opinion" -- not even modesty. Naturally a sentence is only your opinion; read more

It rarely adds anything to say, "In my opinion" -- not even modesty. Naturally a sentence is only your opinion; and you are not the Pope.

I met the youthful lord at Laurence' cell
And gave him what becomed love I might,
Not read more

I met the youthful lord at Laurence' cell
And gave him what becomed love I might,
Not stepping o'er the bounds of modesty.

With people of only moderate ability modesty is mere honesty; but with those who possess great talent it is hypocrisy.

With people of only moderate ability modesty is mere honesty; but with those who possess great talent it is hypocrisy.

Modesty and unselfishness: These are the virtues which men praise, and pass by

Modesty and unselfishness: These are the virtues which men praise, and pass by

The modesty's a candle to thy merit.

The modesty's a candle to thy merit.

He saw her charming, but he saw not half
The charms her downcast modesty conceal'd.

He saw her charming, but he saw not half
The charms her downcast modesty conceal'd.