The temperament that produces a talent for little things is the opposite of that required for great ones.

We own up to minor failings, but only so as to convince others that we have no major ones.

The moderation of people in prosperity is the effect of a smooth and composed temper, owing to the calm of their good fortune.

Fortune and humor govern the world.

Penetration has an air of divination; it pleases our vanity more than any other quality of the mind.

The reason we bitterly hate those who deceive us is because they think they are cleverer than we are.

Opportunity makes us known to others, but more to ourselves.