Raillery is more insupportable than wrong; because we have a right to resent injuries, but are ridiculous in being angry at a jest.

However great the advantages given us by nature, it is not she alone, but fortune with her, which makes heroes.

Some crimes get honor and renown by being committed with more pomp, by a greater number, and in a higher degree of wickedness thanothers. Hence it is that public robberies, plunderings, and sackings have been looked upon as excellencies and noble achievements, and the seizing of whole countries, however unjustly and barbarously, is dignified with the glorious name of gaining conquests.

The most violent passions sometimes leave us at rest, but vanity agitates us constantly.

Flattery is a counterfeit money which, but for vanity, would have no circulation.

Every one speaks well of his own heart, but no one dares speak well of his own mind.

It is most difficult to speak when we are ashamed of being silent.