Fondly we think we honor merit then, When we but praise ourselves in other men.

Fondly we think we honor merit then, When we but praise ourselves in other men.

To what base ends, and by what abject ways,
Are mortals urg'd through sacred lust of praise!

To what base ends, and by what abject ways,
Are mortals urg'd through sacred lust of praise!

Think not those faithful who praise all thy words and actions; but those who kindly reprove thy faults.

Think not those faithful who praise all thy words and actions; but those who kindly reprove thy faults.

Sweet is the scene where genial friendship plays The pleasing game of interchanging praise.

Sweet is the scene where genial friendship plays The pleasing game of interchanging praise.

We are always more anxious to be distinguished for a talent which we do not possess, than to be praised read more

We are always more anxious to be distinguished for a talent which we do not possess, than to be praised for the fifteen which we do possess

Censure is often useful, praise is often deceitful

Censure is often useful, praise is often deceitful

The sweeter sound of woman's praise.

The sweeter sound of woman's praise.

When needs he must, yet faintly then he praises;
Somewhat the deed, much more the means he raises:
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When needs he must, yet faintly then he praises;
Somewhat the deed, much more the means he raises:
So marreth what he makes, and praising most, dispraises.

Good people all, with one accord,
Lament for Madame Blaize,
Who never wanted a good word--
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Good people all, with one accord,
Lament for Madame Blaize,
Who never wanted a good word--
From those who spoke her praise.