Know how to ask. There is nothing more difficult for some people, nor for others, easier.

Maturity of mind is best shown in slow belief.

The greatest wisdom often consist in ignorance.

To equal a predecessor, one must have twice they worth.

Never open the door to a lesser evil, for other and greater ones invariably slink in after it.

Keep to yourself the final touches of your art.

Do not be inaccessible. None is so perfect that he does not need at times the advice of others. He is an incorrigible ass who will never listen to any one. Even the most surpassing intellect should find a place for friendly counsel. Sovereignty itself must learn to lean. There are some that are incorrigible simply because they are inaccessible: They fall to ruin because none dares to extricate them. The highest should have the door open for friendship; it may prove the gate of help. A friend must be free to advise, and even to upbraid, without feeling embarrassed.