Virtue is necessary to a republic.

Every man who has power is impelled to abuse it.

The mood and temper of the public in regard to the treatment of crime and criminals is one of the most unfailing tests of the civilisation of any country.

The incomparable stupidity of life teaches us to love our parents; divine philosophy teaches us to forgive them.

The English are busy folk; they have no time in which to be polite.

The alms given to a naked man in the street do not fulfil the obligations of the state, which owes to every citizen a certain subsistence, a proper nourishment, convenient clothing, and a kind of life not incompatible with health.

Lunch kills half of Paris, supper the other half.