We would rather speak ill of ourselves than not talk about ourselves at all.

The most effectual way to be deceived is to believe oneself more cunning than one's neighbors.

Nothing is rarer than true good nature; they who are reputed to have it are generally only pliant or weak.

The moderation of people in prosperity is the effect of a smooth and composed temper, owing to the calm of their good fortune.

To listen closely and reply well is the highest perfection we are able to attain in the art of conversation.

The name and pretense of virtue is as serviceable to self-interest as are real vices.

If one judges love by the majority of its effects, it is more like hatred than like friendship.