Nature makes merit, and fortune puts it to work.

We should scarcely desire things ardently if we were perfectly acquainted with what we desire.

The happiness and unhappiness of men depends as much on their ethics as on fortune.

Though nature be ever so generous, yet can she not make a hero alone. Fortune must contribute her part too; and till both concur, the work cannot be perfected.

We pardon as long as we love.

We are nearer loving those who hate us than those who love us more than we wish.

There are a great many men valued in society who have nothing to recommend them but serviceable vices.