As soon as sacrifice becomes a duty and necessity to mankind. I see no limit to the horizon which opens before him.

The talent of historians lies in their creating a true ensemble out of facts which are but half true.

The only way of salvation for the world is by returning to thy allegiance.... Firm in my faith, I shall have force to withstand my evil counsellors, my skepticism, which leads me to doubt of the people, my restless spirit which, after truth has been brought to light, impels to go on searching for it.

The ignorance of French society gives one a rough sense of the infinite.

The greatest men of a nation are those it puts to death.

I can die when I wish to: that is my elixir of life.

Good humor is a philosophic state of mind; it seems to say to nature that we take her no more seriously than she takes us.