It was about this time I conceived the bold and arduous project of arriving at moral perfection. I wished to live without committing any fault at any time; I would conquer all that either natural inclination, custom, or company might lead me into.
TEMPERANCE: Eat not to dullness; drink not to elevation. SILENCE: Speak not but what may benefit others or yourself; avoid trifling conversation. ORDER: Let all your things have their places; let each part of your business have its time.
RESOLUTION: Resolve to perform what you ought; perform without fail what you resolve. FRUGALITY: Make no expense but to do good to others or yourself; i.e., waste nothing.