Men are April when they woo, December when they wed. Maids are May when they are maids, but the sky changes when they are wives.

What is wedlock forced but a hell, An age of discord and continual strife? Whereas the contrary bringeth bliss And is a pattern of celestial peace.

By medicine life may be prolonged, yet death Will seize the doctor too.

Nothing emboldens sin so much as mercy.

Sweet mercy is nobility's true badge.

The quality of mercy is not strained; It droppeth as the gentle rain from heaven Upon the place beneath. It is twice blessed- It blesseth him that gives, and him that takes.

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!

There was never yet fair woman but she made mouths in a glass.

Nothing comes amiss, so money comes withal.

Our virtues Lie in th' interpretation of the time.