A good writer does not write as people write, but as he writes.

Although born in a prosperous realm, we did not believe that its boundaries should limit our knowledge, and that the lore of the East should alone enlighten us.

Brutes are deprived of the high advantages which we have; but they have some which we have not. They have not our hopes, but theyare without our fears; they are subject like us to death, but without knowing it; even most of them are more attentive than we to self-preservation, and do not make so bad a use of their passions.

The power of divorce can be given only to those who feel the inconveniences of marriage, and who are sensible of the moment when it is for their interest to make them cease.

What cowardice it is to be dismayed by the happiness of others and devastated by there good fortune.

It is necessary from the very nature of things that power should be a check to power.

Lunch kills half of Paris, supper the other half.