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

The constancy of the wise is only the art of keeping disquietude to one's self.

For most men the love of justice is only the fear of suffering injustice.

Loyalty is in most people only a ruse used by self-interest to attract confidence.

The courage of a great many men, and the virtue of a great many women, are the effect of vanity, shame, and especially a suitabletemperament.

Hope, deceiving as it is, serves at least to lead us to the end of our lives by an agreeable route.

The most sure method of subjecting yourself to be deceived is to consider yourself more cunning than others.