When we see a natural style, we are astonished and charmed; for we expected to see an author, and we find a person.

Evil is easily discovered; there is an infinite variety; good is almost unique. But some kinds of evil are almost as difficult to discover as that which we call good; and often particular evil of this class passes for good. It needs even a certain greatness of soul to attain to this, as to that which is good.

The majority is the best way, because it is visible, and has strength to make itself obeyed. Yet it is the opinion of the least able.

No man ever believes with a true and saving faith unless God inclines his heart; and no man when God does incline his heart can refrain from believing.

Do they think that they have given us great pleasure by telling us that they hold our soul to be no more than wind or smoke, and saying it moreover in tones of pride and satisfaction? Is this then something to be said gaily? Is it not on the contrary something to be said sadly, as being the saddest thing in the world?

Law, without force, is impotent.

If man were happy, he would be the more so, the less he was diverted, like the saints and God.