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

There are no events so disastrous that adroit men do not draw some advantage from them, nor any so fortunate that the imprudent cannot turn to their own prejudice.

Moderation in people who are contented comes from that calm that good fortune lends to their spirit.

The gratitude of most men is but a secret desire of receiving greater benefits.

The judgments our enemies make about us come nearer to the truth than those we make about ourselves.

Self-interest makes some people blind, and others sharp-sighted.

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.