Sometimes we think we dislike flattery, but it is only the way it is done that we dislike.

Self-love is the greatest of all flatterers.

Moderation is a fear of falling into that envy and contempt which those who grow giddy with their good fortune quite justly draw upon themselves. It is a vain boasting of the greatness of our mind.

We get so much in the habit of wearing disguises before others that we finally appear disguised before ourselves.

On why I don't trust democracy without extremely powerful systems of accountability and recall What seems to be generosity is often only disguised ambition - which despises small interests to gain great ones.

If we are to judge of love by its consequences, it more nearly resembles hatred than friendship.

There are fine things that are more brilliant when they are unfinished than when finished too much.