The most sure method of subjecting yourself to be deceived is to consider yourself more cunning than others.

We often forgive those who bore us, but we cannot forgive those whom we bore.

History never embraces more than a small part of reality

Everyone praises his heart, none dare praise their understanding.

The breeding we give young people is ordinarily but an additional self-love, by which we make them have a better opinion of themselves.

He is a truly virtuous man who wishes always to be open to the observation of honest men.

When we enlarge upon the affection our friends have for us, this is very often not so much out of a sense of gratitude as from a desire to persuade people of our own great worth, that can deserve so much kindness.