Clarity of mind means clarity of passion, too; this is why a great and clear mind loves ardently and sees distinctly what it loves.

Amusement that is excessive and followed only for its own sake, allures and deceives us.

We are usually convinced more easily by reasons we have found ourselves than by those which have occurred to others.

Parents fear the destruction of natural affection in their children. What is this natural principle so liable to decay? Habit is a second nature, which destroys the first. Why is not custom nature? I suspect that this nature itself is but a first custom, as custom is a second nature.

There is no arena in which vanity displays itself under such a variety of forms as in conversation.

Vanity is so secure in the heart of man that everyone wants to be admired: even I who write this, and you who read this.

Noble deeds that are concealed are most esteemed.