When struck by a thunderbolt it is unnecessary to consult the Book of Dates as to the precise meaning of the omen.

The province of philosophy is not so much to prevent calamities befalling as to demonstrate that they are blessings when they have taken place.

Although there exist many thousand subjects for elegant conversation, there are persons who cannot meet a cripple without talking about feet.

One learns to itch where one can scratch.

How is it possible to suspend topaz in one cup of the balance and weigh it against amethyst in the other; or who in a single language can compare the tranquillizing grace of a maiden with the invigorating pleasure of witnessing a well-contested rat-fight?

He who thinks he is raising a mound may only in Reality be digging a pit.

The wise duck keeps his mouth shut when he smells frogs.