Avarice often produces opposite results: there are an infinite number of persons who sacrifice their property to doubtful and distant expectations; others mistake great future advantages for small present interests.

To listen closely and reply well is the highest perfection we are able to attain in the art of conversation.

High fortune makes both our virtues and vices stand out as objects that are brought clearly to view by the light.

The only security is courage.

A wise man should order his interests, and set them all in their proper places. This order is often troubled by greed, which putsus upon pursuing so many things at once that, in eagerness for matters of less consideration, we grasp at trifles, and let go things of greater value.

Ridicule dishonours more than dishonour.

The height of ability consists in a thorough knowledge of the real value of things, and of the genius of the age in which we live.