Weakness of character is the only defect which cannot be amended.

Moderation is a fear of falling into that envy and contempt which those who grow giddy with their good fortune quite justly draw upon themselves. It is a vain boasting of the greatness of our mind.

The passions do very often give birth to others of a nature most contrary to their own. Thus avarice sometimes brings forth prodigality, and prodigality avarice; a man's resolution is very often the effect of levity, and his boldness that of cowardice and fear.

The art of using moderate abilities to advantage often brings greater results than actual brilliance

The accent of one's birthplace remains in the mind and in the heart as in one's speech.

If it were not for poetry, few men would ever fall in love.

In the misfortunes of our best friends we always find something not altogether displeasing to us.