The vices enter into the composition of the virtues, as poisons into that of medicines. Prudence collects and arranges them, and uses them beneficially against the ills of life.

We often pride ourselves on even the most criminal passions, but envy is a timid and shamefaced passion we never dare to acknowledge.

There is many a virtuous woman weary of her trade.

To be a great man it is necessary to know how to profit by the whole of our good fortune.

We have not strength enough to follow our reason so far as it would carry us.

When we enlarge upon the affection our friends have for us, this is very often not so much out of a sense of gratitude as from a desire to persuade people of our own great worth, that can deserve so much kindness.

Most men, like plants, possess hidden qualities which chance discovers.