ABILITY

ABILITY.

The art of being able to make a good use of moderate abilities wins esteem, and often confers more reputation than real merit.—

Rochefoucauld.

Men are often capable of greater things than they perform. They are sent into the world with bills of credit, and seldom draw to their mil extent.— Walpcle.

The force of his own merit makes his way, a gift that Heaven gives for him.—Shakespeare.

The abilities of a man must fall short on one side or other, like too scanty a blanket when yon are abed : if you pull it upon your shoulders, you leave your feet bare; if you thrust it down upon your feet, your shoulders are uncovered.—Sir W. Temple.

The height of ability consists in a thorough knowledge of the real value of things, and of the genius of the age we live in.—Rochefoucauld.

An able man shows his spirit by gentle words and resolute actions; he is neither hot nor timid.—Chesterfield.

No man's abilities are so remarkably shining, as not to stand in need of a proper opportunity, a patron, and even the praises of a friend, to recommend them to the notice*of the world.—Pliny.

Some persons of weak understanding are so sensible of that weakness, as to be able to make a good use of it.—Rochefoucauld.