We cannot possibly imagine the variety of contradictions in every heart.

Being a blockhead is sometimes the best security against being cheated by a man of wit.

Silence is the safest course for any man to adopt who distrust himself.

Often we are firm from weakness, and audacious from timidity.

The blindness of men is the most dangerous effect of their pride; it seems to nourish and augment it; it deprives them of knowledge of remedies which can solace their miseries and can cure their faults.

Those who are incapable of committing great crimes do not readily suspect them in others.

Hypocrisy is the homage vice pays to virtue.