Politeness is a desire to be treated politely, and to be esteemed polite oneself.

Sincerity is a certain openness of heart. It is to be found in very few, and what we commonly look upon to be so is only a cunningsort of dissimulation, to insinuate ourselves into the confidence of others.

The art of using moderate abilities to advantage often brings greater results than actual brilliance

We should not be upset that others hide the truth from us, when we hide it so often from ourselves.

Luxury and excessive refinement are sure forerunners of the decadence of states, because when all individuals seek their own interests they neglect the public weal.

Jealousy is the greatest of all evils, and the one that arouses the least pity in the person who causes it.

It is great folly to wish to be wise all alone.