That which occasions so many mistakes in the computations of men, when they expect return for favors, is that the giver's pride and the receiver's cannot agree upon the value of the kindness done.

Jealousy is bred in doubts. When those doubts change into certainties, then the passion either ceases or turns absolute madness.

The courage of a great many men, and the virtue of a great many women, are the effect of vanity, shame, and especially a suitabletemperament.

It is easier to appear worthy of a position one does not hold, than of the office which one fills.

Familiarity is a suspension of almost all the laws of civility, which libertinism has introduced into society under the notion of ease.

We are nearer loving those who hate us than those who love us more than we wish.

It is oftener by the estimation of our own feelings that we exaggerate the good qualities of others than by their merit, and when we praise them we wish to attract their praise.