Truth has scarce done so much good in the world as the false appearances of it have done hurt.

In the presence of some people we inevitably depart From ourselves: we are inaccurate, we say things we do not feel, And talk nonsense. When we get home we are conscious that we Have made fools of ourselves. Never go near these people.

What makes lovers never tire of one another is that they talk always about themselves.

We give advice, we do not inspire conduct.

There is merit without rank, but there is no rank without some merit.

The passions do very often give birth to others of a nature most contrary to their own. Thus avarice sometimes brings forth prodigality, and prodigality avarice; a man's resolution is very often the effect of levity, and his boldness that of cowardice and fear.

Passion often makes fools of the wisest men and gives the silliest wisdom.