It is easier to understand mankind in general than any individual man.

The best way to rise in society is to use all possible means of persuading people that one has already risen in society.

The vices enter into the composition of the virtues, as poisons into that of medicines. Prudence collects and arranges them, and uses them beneficially against the ills of life.

Neither love nor fire can subsist without perpetual motion; both cease to live so soon as they cease to hope, or to fear.

Flattery is a kind of bad money, to which our vanity gives us currency.

Organize one's values in the order of their worth

Sobriety is concern for one's health - or limited capacity.