It is much easier to seem fitted for posts we do not fill than for those we do.

When we seek reconciliation with our enemies, it is commonly out of a desire to better our own condition, a being harassed and tired out with a state of war, and a fear of some ill accident which we are willing to prevent.

The happiness and unhappiness of men depends as much on their ethics as on fortune.

We often pride ourselves on even the most criminal passions, but envy is a timid and shamefaced passion we never dare to acknowledge.

A wise man thinks it more advantageous not to join the battle than to win.

Some beautiful things are more dazzling when they are still imperfect than when they have been too perfectly crafted.

It is oftener by the estimation of our own feelings that we exaggerate the good qualities of others than by their merit, and when we praise them we wish to attract their praise.