We should only affect compassion, and carefully avoid having any.

That which occasions so many mistakes in the computations of men, when they expect return for favors, is that the giver's pride and the receiver's cannot agree upon the value of the kindness done.

The intention of cheating no one lays us open to being cheated ourselves.

Too great refinement is false delicacy, and true delicacy is solid refinement.

The name and pretense of virtue is as serviceable to self-interest as are real vices.

Love of fame, fear of disgrace, schemes for advancement, desire to make life comfortable and pleasant, and the urge to humiliate others are often at the root of the valour men hold in such high esteem.

Sometimes we think we dislike flattery, but it is only the way it is done that we dislike.