We do not like to praise, and seldom praise anyone without self-interest.

Those great and glorious actions that dazzle our eyes with their luster are represented by statesmen as the result of great wisdomand excellent design; whereas, in truth, they are commonly the effects of the humors and passions.

All men are equally proud. The only difference is that not all take the same methods of showing it.

He that would be a great man must learn to turn every accident to some advantage.

The strongest symptom of wisdom in man is his being sensible of his own follies.

The constancy of sages is nothing but the art of locking up their agitation in their hearts.

He is a truly virtuous man who wishes always to be open to the observation of honest men.