Good fortune is the greatest of blessings, but good counsel comes next, and the lack of it destroys the other also.

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.

Success has a great tendency to conceal and throw a veil over the evil deeds of men.

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

As a vessel is known by the sound, whether it be cracked or not; so men are proved, by their speeches, whether they be wise or foolish.

Small opportunities often presage great enterprises.

One believes in what one wants to believe in.