It is not easy to be a pretty woman without causing mischief.

The duty of literature is to note what counts, and to light up what is suited to the light. If it ceases to choose and to love, it becomes like a woman who gives herself without preference.

Our passions are ourselves.

The average man does not know what to do with this life, yet wants another one which will last forever.

It is only the poor who pay cash, and that not from virtue, but because they are refused credit.

Man is a rational animal. He can think up a reason for anything he wants to believe.

Do not try to satisfy your vanity by teaching a great many things. Awaken people's curiosity. It is enough to open minds; do not overload them. Put there just a spark. If there is some good inflammable stuff, it will catch fire.