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.

It is not possible to found a lasting power upon injustice, perjury, and treachery.

Nothing is so easy as to deceive one's self; for what we wish, that we readily believe; but such expectations are often inconsistent with the real state of things.

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

Great and unexpected successes are often the cause of foolish rushing into acts of extravagance.

Nothing is easier than self-deceit.

Small opportunities are often the beginning of great enterprises.