Full Idea
We have no idea of substance, distinct from that of a collection of particular qualities, nor have we any other meaning when we either talk or reason concerning it.
Gist of Idea
The only meaning we have for substance is a collection of qualities
Source
David Hume (Treatise of Human Nature [1739], I.I.6)
Book Reference
Hume,David: 'A Treatise of Human Nature', ed/tr. Mossner,Ernest C. [Penguin 1969], p.63
A Reaction
This is the standard empiricist view of such things, firmly stated. It is tempting to say that Hume has simply misunderstood the word, since it is precisely intended to mean not the qualities, but what underlies them, and persists.