Self-love is the greatest of all flatterers.

Chance corrects us of many faults that reason would not know how to correct.

A clever man reaps some benefit from the worst catastrophe, and a fool can turn even good luck to his disadvantage.

Women can more easily conquer their passion than their coquetterie.

The applause we give those who are new to society often proceeds from a secret envying of those already established.

High fortune makes both our virtues and vices stand out as objects that are brought clearly to view by the light.

It is as commendable to think well of oneself when alone, as it is ridiculous to speak well of oneself among others.