Our aversion to lying is commonly a secret ambition to make what we say considerable, and have every word received with a religious respect.

Few people have the wisdom to prefer the criticism that would do them good, to the praise that deceives them.

We give advice, but we cannot give the wisdom to profit by it.

Whilst weakness and timidity keep us to our duty, virtue has often all the honor.

It is not expedient or wise to examine our friends too closely; few persons are raised in our esteem by a close examination.

The man whom no one pleases is much more unhappy than the man who pleases no one.

Prudence and love are inconsistent; in proportion as the last increases, the other decreases.