Though nature be ever so generous, yet can she not make a hero alone. Fortune must contribute her part too; and till both concur, the work cannot be perfected.

Too great cleverness is but deceptive delicacy, true delicacy is the most substantial cleverness.

Fortune makes our virtues and vices visible, just as light does the objects of sight.

Nothing is rarer than real goodness.

Self-love is the greatest of all flatterers.

There is a kind of elevation which does not depend on fortune; it is a certain air which distinguishes us, and seems to destine us for great things; it is a price which we imperceptibly set upon ourselves.

There is many a virtuous woman weary of her trade.