All writers on the science of policy are agreed, and they agree with experience, that all governments must frequently infringe the rules of justice to support themselves; that truth must give way to dissimulation, honesty to convenience, and humanity itself to the reigning of interest. The whole of this mystery of iniquity is called the reason of state.

To reach the height of our ambition is like trying to reach the rainbow; as we advance it recedes.

Men want to be reminded, who do not want to be taught; because those original ideas of rectitude to which the mind is compelled to assent when they are proposed, are not always as present to us as they ought to be.

The concessions of the weak are the concessions of fear.

Religion is among the most powerful causes of enthusiasm.

The pride of men will not often suffer reason to have scope until it can be no longer of service.

To drive men from independence to live on alms, is itself great cruelty.