Honest people will respect us for our merit: the public, for our luck.

Self-love is the greatest of all flatterers.

Passion often makes a fool of the cleverest man and often makes the most foolish men clever

We are so used to dissembling with others that in time we come to deceive and dissemble with ourselves.

Conceit causes more conversation than wit.

Love of fame, fear of disgrace, schemes for advancement, desire to make life comfortable and pleasant, and the urge to humiliate others are often at the root of the valour men hold in such high esteem.

The mind is always the patsy of the heart.