The only good copies are those which make us see the absurdity of bad originals.

Absence cools moderate passions, and inflames violent ones; just as the wind blows out candles, but kindles fires.

Envy is more irreconcilable than hatred.

Most men, like plants, possess hidden qualities which chance discovers.

In misfortune we often mistake dejection for constancy; we bear it without daring to look on it; like cowards, who suffer themselves to be murdered without resistance.

Decency is the least of all laws, but yet it is the law which is most strictly observed.

Women's virtue is frequently nothing but a regard to their own quiet and a tenderness for their reputation.