Men who are ruled by reason desire nothing for themselves which they would not wish for all mankind.

Do not weep; do not wax indignant. Understand.

Ambition is the immoderate desire for honor.

Surely human affairs would be far happier if the power in men to be silent were the same as that to speak. But experience more than sufficiently teaches that men govern nothing with more difficulty than their tongues.

If we love something similar to ourselves, we endeavor, as far as we can, to bring it about that it should love us in return.

A free man, who lives among ignorant people, tries as much as he can to refuse their benefits. .. He who lives under the guidance of reason endeavours as much as possible to repay his fellow's hatred, rage, contempt, etc. with love and nobleness.

Minds are not conquered by force, but by love and high-mindedness.