We often in our misfortunes take that for constancy and patience which is only dejection of mind; we suffer without daring to holdup our heads, just as cowards let themselves be knocked on the head because they have not courage to strike back.

We pardon to the extent that we love.

Almost everyone takes pleasure in repaying trifling obligations, very many feel gratitude for those that are moderate; but there is scarcely anyone who is not ungrateful for those that are weighty.

No matter how much care we put into hiding our passions under the appearances of devotion and honor, they can always be seen to peer out through these covers.

Never give anyone the advice to buy or sell shares, because the most benevolent price of advice can turn out badly.

Sobriety is love of health, or inability to eat much.

Idiots and lunatics see only their own wit.