Charity is that rational and constant affection which makes us sacrifice ourselves to the human race, as if we were united with it, so as to form one individual, partaking equally in its adversity and prosperity.

When the multitude detests a man, inquiry is necessary; when the multitude likes a man, inquiry is equally necessary.

The man who asks a question is a fool for a minute, the man who does not ask is a fool for life.

A superior man is modest in his speech, but exceeds in his actions.

Speak the truth, do not yield to anger; give, if thou art asked for little; by these three steps thou wilt go near the gods.

At seventy, I could follow the dictates of my own heart; for what I desired no longer overstepped the boundaries of right.

In speaking, it is best to be clear and say just enough to convey the meaning.