It takes more strength of character to withstand good fortune than bad.

The secret of pleasing in conversation is not to explain too much everything; to say them half and leave a little for divination is a mark of the good opinion we have of others, and nothing flatters their self-love more.

Our merit gains us the esteem of the virtuous-our star that of the public.

When a man must force himself to be faithful in his love, this is hardly better than unfaithfulness.

Philosophy easily triumphs over past and future ills; but present ills triumph over philosophy.

Affected simplicity is an elegant imposture.

To praise great actions with sincerity may be said to be taking part in them.