Kings do with men as with pieces of money; they give them what value they please, and we are obliged to receive them at their current and not at their real value.

The most effectual way to be deceived is to believe oneself more cunning than one's neighbors.

There is no accident so unfortunate but wise men will make some advantage of it, nor any so entirely fortunate but fools may turn it to their own prejudice.

We arrive at the various stages of life quite as novices.

Coquetry is the essential characteristic, and the prevalent humor of women; but they do not all practice it, because the coquetry of some is restrained by fear or by reason.

Moderation is like sobriety: you would like to have some more, but are afraid of making yourself ill.

Vices are ingredients of virtues just as poisons are ingredients of remedies. Prudence mixes and tempers them and uses them effectively against life's ills.