A man for whom accident discovers sense, is not a rational being. A man only is so who understands, who distinguishes, who tests it.

Many young persons believe themselves natural when they are only impolite and coarse.

To understand matters rightly we should understand their details; and as that knowledge is almost infinite, our knowledge is always superficial and imperfect.

We should manage our fortune as we do our health - enjoy it when good, be patient when it is bad, and never apply violent remedies except in an extreme necessity

It is sometimes necessary to play the fool to avoid being deceived by cunning men.

Gratitude, in most men, is only a strong and secret hope of greater favors.

There are fine things that are more brilliant when they are unfinished than when finished too much.