The wretched and miserable should turn to their Saviour first, yet they do not hope in Him until all other hope is exhausted.

We are always in a hurry to be happy...; for when we have suffered a long time, we have great difficulty in believing in good fortune.

As a general rule...people ask for advice only in order not to follow it; or if they do follow it, in order to have someone to blame for giving it.

One's work may be finished someday, but one's education never.

Edmond Dantes: I don't believe in God. Abbe Faria: That doesn't matter, He believes in you.

My son, be worthy of your noble name, worthily borne by your ancestors for over five hundred years. Remember it’s by courage, and courage alone, that a nobleman makes his way nowadays. Don’t be afraid of opportunities, and seek out adventures. My son, all I have to give you is fifteen ecus, my horse, and the advice you’ve just heard. Make the most of these gifts, and have a long, happy life.

Well, father, in the shipwreck of life, for life is an eternal shipwreck of our hopes, I cast into the sea my useless encumbrance, that is all, and I remain with my own will, disposed to live perfectly alone, and, consequently, perfectly free. (Eugenie to her father)