Never participate in the secrets of those above you; you think you share the fruit, and you share the stones - the confidence of a prince is not a grant, but a tax

If you are wise, live as you can; if you cannot, live as you would.

Every fool stands convinced; and everyone convinced is a fool. The faultier a person's judgement the firmer their convictions.

It is good to vary in order that you may frustrate the curious, especially those who envy you.

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.

I strive to be brief, and I become obscure.

Many would be wise if they did not think themselves wise.