We should wish for few things with eagerness, if we perfectly knew the nature of that which was the object of our desire.

It is praiseworthy even to attempt a great action.

On why I don't trust democracy without extremely powerful systems of accountability and recall What seems to be generosity is often only disguised ambition - which despises small interests to gain great ones.

Weakness is the only fault that is incorrigible.

A clever man reaps some benefit from the worst catastrophe, and a fool can turn even good luck to his disadvantage.

Moderation is an ostentatious proof of our strength of character.

A man's wits are better employed in bearing up under the misfortunes that lie upon him at present than in foreseeing those that may come upon him hereafter.