Nothing is so capable of diminishing self-love as the observation that we disapprove at one time what we approve at another.

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

When our hatred is violent, it sinks us even beneath those we hate.

There is a kind of elevation which does not depend on fortune; it is a certain air which distinguishes us, and seems to destine us for great things; it is a price which we imperceptibly set upon ourselves.

Few things are impracticable in themselves; and it is for want of application, rather than of means, that men fail to succeed.

Flattery is a kind of bad money, to which our vanity gives us currency.

Moderation in people who are contented comes from that calm that good fortune lends to their spirit.