The height of ability consists in a thorough knowledge of the real value of things, and of the genius of the age in which we live.

Silence is the best tactic for he who distrusts himself.

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

The more one loves a mistress, the more one is ready to hate her.

It is far better to be deceived than undeceived by those whom we tenderly love.

Sometimes in life situations develop that only the half-crazy can get out of.

Moderation is represented as a virtue in order to restrain the ambition of great men, and to console those of a meaner condition in their lesser merit and fortune.