The absolute ruler may be a Nero, but he is sometimes a Titus or Marc Aurelius; the people is often Nero, but never Marc Aurelius.

The modest man has everything to gain, and the arrogant man everything to lose; for modesty has always to deal with generosity, and arrogance with envy.

There are men who gain from their wealth only the fear of losing it.

There is even the dignity of vice.

Brave men do not boast nor bluster. Deeds, not words, speak for such.

It is easy for men to write and talk like philosophers, but to act with wisdom, there is the rub!

Vices are often habits rather than passions.