There are reproaches which praise, and praises which defame.

Everyone agrees that a secret should be kept intact, but everyone does not agree as to the nature and importance of secrecy. Too often we consult ourselves as to what we should say, what we should leave unsaid. There are few permanent secrets, and the scruple against revealing them will not last forever.

We should often feel ashamed of our best actions if the world could see all the motives which produced them.

A man's happiness or unhappiness depends as much on his temperament as on his destiny.

Those who are themselves incapable of great crimes are ever backward to suspect others.

If we never flattered ourselves we should have but scant pleasure.

It is not always for virtue's sake that women are virtuous.