There is a form of eminence which does not depend on fate; it is an air which sets us apart and seems to prtend great things; it is the value which we unconsciously attach to ourselves; it is the quality which wins us deference of others; more than birth, position, or ability, it gives us ascendance.

In great affairs we ought to apply ourselves less to creating chances than to profiting from those that offer.

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

We have more indolence in the mind than in the body.

Strength and weakness of mind are misnomers; they are really nothing but the good or bad health of our bodily organs.

It is difficult to like those whom we do not esteem; but it is no less so to like those whom we esteem more than ourselves.

Moderation is like sobriety: you would like to have some more, but are afraid of making yourself ill.