We acknowledge our faults in order to repair by our sincerity the damage they have done us in the eyes of others.

Satire is at once the most agreeable and most dangerous of mental qualities. It always pleases when it is refined, but we always fear those who use it too much; yet satire should be allowed when unmixed with spite, and when the person satirized can join in the satire.

Some crimes get honor and renown by being committed with more pomp, by a greater number, and in a higher degree of wickedness thanothers. Hence it is that public robberies, plunderings, and sackings have been looked upon as excellencies and noble achievements, and the seizing of whole countries, however unjustly and barbarously, is dignified with the glorious name of gaining conquests.

It is as commendable to think well of oneself when alone, as it is ridiculous to speak well of oneself among others.

If you cannot find peace in yourself, it is useless to look for it elsewhere.

A readiness to believe ill of others, before we have duly examined it, is the effect of laziness and pride. We are eager to find aculprit, and loath to give ourselves the trouble of examining the crime.

Self-love, as it happens to be well or ill conducted, constitutes virtue and vice.