Self-interest speaks all manner of tongues and plays all manner of parts, even that of disinterestedness.

We make promises to the extent that we hope-and keep them to the extent that we fear.

Good taste comes more from the judgment than from the mind.

It is easier to understand mankind in general than any individual man.

When the soul is ruffled by the remains of one passion, it is more disposed to entertain a new one than when it is entirely curedand at rest from all.

It is from a weakness and smallness of mind that men are opinionated; and we are very loath to believe what we are not able to comprehend.

Nothing ought more to humiliate men who have merited great praise than the care they still take to boast of little things.