Talent is a gift which God has given us secretly, and which we reveal without perceiving it.

False happiness renders men stern and proud, and that happiness is never communicated. True happiness renders them kind and sensible, and that happiness is always shared.

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

The pagan religion, which prohibited only some of the grosser crimes, and which stopped the hand but meddled not with the heart, might have crimes that were inexplicable.

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.

Vanity and pride of nations; vanity is as advantageous to a government as pride is dangerous.

The life of man is but a succession of vain hopes and groundless fears.