When our vices desert us, we flatter ourselves that we are deserting our vices.

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

Fortune never appears so blind as to those to whom she does no good.

Few are sufficiently wise to prefer censure which is useful to praise which is treacherous.

More men are guilty of treason through weakness than any studied design to betray.

Old people love to give good advice; it compensates them for their inability to set a bad example.

When fortune surprises us by giving us some great office without having gradually led us to expect it, or without having raised our hopes, it is well nigh impossible to occupy it well, and to appear worthy to fill it.