Two things, well considered, would prevent many quarrels: first, to have it well ascertained whether we are not disputing about terms, rather than things; and, secondly, to examine whether that on which we differ is worth contending about.

Love may exist without jealousy, although this is rare: but jealousy may exist without love, and this is common; for jealousy can feed on that which is bitter no less than on that which is sweet, and is sustained by pride as often as by affection.

It is not until we have passed through the furnace that we are made to know how much dross there is in our composition.

Ignorance is a blank sheet, on which we may write; but error is a scribbled one, on which we must first erase.

Honor is unstable and seldom the same; for she feeds upon opinion, and is as fickle as her food.

When you have nothing to say, say nothing; a weak defense strengthens your opponent, and silence is less injurious than a bad reply.

Men are born with two eyes, but with one tongue, in order that they should see twice as much as they say.