When fortune surprises us by giving us some great office without having gradually led us to expect it, or without having raised our hopes, it is well nigh impossible to occupy it well, and to appear worthy to fill it.

People always complain about their memories, never about their minds.

Consolation for unhappiness can often be found in a certain satisfaction we get from looking unhappy.

We are never so generous as when giving advice.

Cunning and treachery are the offspring of incapacity.

As the great ones of this world are unable to bestow health of body or peace of mind, we always pay too high a price for any good they can do.

To boast that one never flirts is actually a kind of flirtation.