I sincerely want peace, not because I lack resources for war, but because I hate bloodshed.

self-interest usually brings injustice with it.

The use of torture is contrary to sound judgment and common sense. Humanity itself cries out against it, and demands it to be utterly abolished.

To tempt, and to be tempted, are things very nearly allied, and, in spite of the finest maxims of morality impressed upon the mind, whenever feeling has anything to do in the matter, no sooner is it excited than we have already gone vastly farther than we are aware of, and I have yet to learn how it is possible to prevent its being excited.

Tell a thousand people to draft a letter, let them debate every phrase, and see how long it takes and what you get.

You were in a mood to quarrel. Please inform me once the inclination passes.

you must be gay; only thus can life be endured. I speak from experience for I have had to endure much, and have only been able to endure it because I have always laughed whenever I had the chance.