Perfect courage is to do without witnesses what one would be capable of doing with the world looking on.

The same strength of character which helps a man resist love, helps to make it more violent and lasting too. People of unsettled minds are always driven about with passions, but never absolutely filled with any.

Truth has scarce done so much good in the world as the false appearances of it have done hurt.

One cannot answer for his courage when he has never been in danger.

Moderation is like sobriety: you would like to have some more, but are afraid of making yourself ill.

Fortune turns all things to the advantage of those on whom she smiles.

It is only persons of firmness that can have real gentleness. Those who appear gentle are, in general, only a weak character, which easily changes into asperity.