A man is his own easiest dupe, for what he wishes to be true he generally believes to be true.

Nothing is easier than self-deceit.

It is the natural disposition of all men to listen with pleasure to abuse and slander of their neighbour, and to hear with impatience those who utter praises of themselves.

There is one safeguard known generally to the wise, which is an advantage and security to all, but especially to democracies as against despots - suspicion.

The man who is in the highest state of prosperity, and who thinks his fortune is most secure, knows not if it will remain unchanged till the evening.

To remind a man of the good turns you have done him is very much like a reproach.

I decline to buy repentance at the cost of ten thousand drachmas.