Ron Chernow

"Washington once advised his adopted grandson that where there is no occasion for expressing an opinion, it is best to be silent. For there is nothing more certain than that it is at all times more easy to make enemies than friends."

"(regarding Charles Lee) This eccentric and notably slovenly man was always trailed by his beloved dogs. 'When I can be convinced that men are as worthy objects as dogs', he once explained, 'I shall transfer my benevolence to them."