That good disposition which boasts of being most tender is often stifled by the least urging of self-interest.
Francois de La RochefoucauldHowever glorious an action in itself, it ought not to pass for great if it be not the effect of wisdom and intention.
Francois de La RochefoucauldWhen we enlarge upon the affection our friends have for us, this is very often not so much out of a sense of gratitude as from a desire to persuade people of our own great worth, that can deserve so much kindness.
Francois de La Rochefoucauld