Our true dignity consists — in thought. Thence we must derive our elevation, not from space or duration. Let us endeavor then to think well; this is the principle of morals.

When I have occasionally set myself to consider the different distractions of men, the pains and perils to which they expose themselves I have discovered that all the unhappiness of men arises from one single fact, that they cannot stay quietly in their own chamber.

Is it courage in a dying man to go, in weakness and in agony, to affront an almighty and eternal God?

There are some who speak well and write badly. For the place and the audience warm them, and draw from their minds more than they think of without that warmth.

What are our natural principles but principles of custom?

Wisdom leads us back to childhood.

When a natural discourse paints a passion or an effect, one feels within oneself the truth of what one reads, which was there before, although one did not know it. Hence one is inclined to love him who makes us feel it, for he has not shown us his own riches, but ours. ...such community of intellect that we have with him necessarily inclines the heart to love.