It is of no consequence of what parents a man is born, so he be man of merit

A coxcomb is one whom simpletons believe to be a man of merit.

I don't say 'Tis impossible for an impudent man not to rise in the world, but a moderate merit with a large share of impudence is more probable to be advanced than the greatest qualifications without it.

The judge found our issues for appeal to have merit. The man has a perfect history and is not a threat to the community. There's no reason he should be held during his appeal.

The more a man denies himself, the more shall he obtain from God

Mediocrity is not allowed to poets, either by the gods or man