You have to appear wiser and more prudent than is required by the people you are dealing with if you want to give a high opinion of yourself.

Fortunate people often have very favorable beginnings and very tragic endings. What matters isn't being applauded when you arrive - for that is common - but being missed when you leave.

Trust your heart, especially when it is a strong one.

A bad manner spoils everything, even reason and justice; a good one supplies everything, gilds a No, sweetens a truth, and adds a touch of beauty to old age itself.

The passions are the humors of the mind, and the least excess sickens our judgment. If the disease spreads to the mouth, your reputation will be in danger.

Sometimes it proves the highest understanding not to understand.

Many people who pretend to be very busy have the least to do.