Almost everyone takes pleasure in repaying trifling obligations, very many feel gratitude for those that are moderate; but there is scarcely anyone who is not ungrateful for those that are weighty.

Gallantry of mind consists in saying flattering things in an agreeable manner.

It is with certain good qualities as with the senses; those who have them not can neither appreciate nor comprehend them in others.

What we call generosity is for the most part only the vanity of giving; and we exercise it because we are more fond of that vanity than of the thing we give.

Those who are themselves incapable of great crimes are ever backward to suspect others.

There is nothing men are so generous of as advice.

Not all those who know their minds know their hearts as well.