The contempt of riches in the philosophers was a concealed desire of revenging on fortune the injustice done to their merit, by despising the good she denied them.

Jealousy is in a manner just and reasonable, as it tends to preserve a good which belongs, or which we believe belongs to us, on the other hand envy is a fury which cannot endure the happiness of others.

True eloquence consists in saying all that should be said, and that only.

Men would not live in society long if they were not each others dupes.

Conceit causes more conversation than wit.

Criticism sometimes is really praise, and praise sometimes slander.

One forgives to the degree that one loves.