Language is established by reason, antiquity, authority, and custom.

Of reason the chief ground is analogy, but sometimes etymology.

Ancient things have a certain majesty, and, as I might say, religion, to commend them.

Authority is wont to be sought from orators and historians; the necessity of metre mostly excuses the poets.

When the judgement of the chief masters of eloquence passes for reason, even error seems right to those who follow great leaders.