The mark of extraordinary merit is to see those most envious of it constrained to praise.

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.

We are very far from always knowing our own wishes.

Men more easily renounce their interests than their tastes.

The generality of virtuous women are like hidden treasures, they are safe only because nobody has sought after them.

Great souls are not those who have fewer passions and more virtues than others, but only those who have greater designs.

It requires greater virtues to support good fortune than bad.