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

We give advice, we do not inspire conduct.

Though men are apt to flatter and exalt themselves with their great achievements, yet these are, in truth, very often owing not so much to design as chance.

Sometimes there are accidents in our lives the skillful extrication from which demands a little folly.

Opportunity makes us known to others, but more to ourselves.

There are a great many simpletons who know themselves to be so, and who make a very cunning use of their own simplicity.

Death, like the sun, cannot be looked at steadily.