to tempt and be tempted are closely allied; and in spite of all the finest moral maxims buried in the mind, when emotion interferes, when feeling makes its appearance, one is already much further involved that one realizes, and I have still not learnt how to prevent its appearance.

I beg you take courage; the brave soul can mend even disaster.

Praise is the only gift for which people are really grateful. Marguerite, Countess of Blessington I praise loudly; I blame softly.

The most sure, but at the same time the most difficult expedient to mend the morals of the people, is a perfect system of education.

You philosophers are lucky men. You write on paper and paper is patient. Unfortunate Empress that I am, I write on the susceptible skins of living beings.

Your wits make others witty.

I shall be an autocrat: that's my trade. And the good Lord will forgive me: that's his.