There are two things which Man cannot look at directly without flinching: the sun and death.

Friendship is a traffic wherein self-love always proposes to be the gainer.

The judgments our enemies make about us come nearer to the truth than those we make about ourselves.

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.

Commonplace minds usually condemn what is beyond the reach of their understanding.

Often we are firm from weakness, and audacious from timidity.

Innocence is lucky if it finds the same protection as guilt