Some counterfeits reproduce so very well the truth that it would be a flaw of judgment not to be deceived by them.

Instead of considering that the worst way to persuade or please others is to try thus strongly to please ourselves, and that to listen well and to answer well are some of the greatest charms we can have in conversation.

It is much easier to seem fitted for posts we do not fill than for those we do.

When fortune surprises us by giving us some great office without having gradually led us to expect it, or without having raised our hopes, it is well nigh impossible to occupy it well, and to appear worthy to fill it.

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

We are almost always bored by just those whom we must not find boring.

Those only are despicable who fear to be despised.