I said of laughter, “It is mad,” and of pleasure, “What use is it?”

Some things are privileged from jest—namely, religion, matters of state, great persons, all men’s present business of importance, and any case that deserves pity.

Laughter always arises from a gaiety of disposition, absolutely incompatible with contempt and indignation.

A jest breaks no bones.

Wit enables us to act rudely with impunity.