Know the great men of your age.

Even monarchs have need of authors, and fear their pens more than ugly women the painter's pencil.

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.

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 sage never seems to know his own merits, for only by not noticing them can you call others' attention to them.

Things do not pass for what they are, but for what they seem. Most things are judged by their jackets.

Friendship multiplies blessings and...soothes the soul.