It is our relation to circumstances that determines their influence upon us.

Tranquil pleasures last the longest; we are not fitted to bear the burden of great joys.

The passions are like fire, useful in a thousand ways and dangerous only in one, through their excess.

Pure motives do not insure perfect results.

Tears are nature's lotion for the eyes. The eyes see better for being washed by them.

If one is not virtuous he becomes vicious.

At the best, sarcasms, bitter irony, scathing wit, are a sort of swordplay of the mind. You pink your adversary, and he is forthwith dead; and then you deserve to be hung for it.