We often see malefactors, when they are led to execution, put on resolution and a contempt of death which, in truth, is nothing else but fearing to look it in the face--so that this pretended bravery may very truly be said to do the same good office to their mind that the blindfold does to their eyes.

Prudence and love are inconsistent; in proportion as the last increases, the other decreases.

Politeness of mind consists in thinking chaste and refined thoughts.

Jealousy is not so much the love of another as the love of ourselves.

We have more ability than will power, and it is often an excuse to ourselves that we imagine that things are impossible.

Absence cools moderate passions, and inflames violent ones; just as the wind blows out candles, but kindles fires.

That man, we may be sure, is a person of true worth, whom those who envy him most are yet forced to praise.