It is harder to hide the feelings we have than to feign the ones we do not have.

If we did not flatter ourselves, the flattery of others could never harm us.

Youth is a continual intoxication; it is the fever of reason.

Love of fame, fear of disgrace, schemes for advancement, desire to make life comfortable and pleasant, and the urge to humiliate others are often at the root of the valour men hold in such high esteem.

Nothing is rarer than true good nature; they who are reputed to have it are generally only pliant or weak.

Our virtues are often, in reality, no better than vices disguised.

We never desire strongly, what we desire rationally.