Repentance is not so much remorse for what we have done as the fear of the consequences.

We are always bored by the very people by whom it is vital not to be bored.

We do not lack strength so much as the will to use it; and very often our imagining that things are impossible is nothing but an excuse of our own contriving, to reconcile ourselves to our own idleness.

Our greediness so often troubles us, making us run after so many things at the same time, that while we too eagerly look after the least we miss the greatest.

There is great skill in knowing how to conceal one's skill.

We often forgive those who bore us, but we cannot forgive those whom we bore.

It is as proper to have pride in oneself as it ridiculous to show it to others.