Being a blockhead is sometimes the best security against being cheated by a man of wit.

When we enlarge upon the affection our friends have for us, this is very often not so much out of a sense of gratitude as from a desire to persuade people of our own great worth, that can deserve so much kindness.

A man convinced of his own merit will accept misfortune as an honor, for thus can he persuade others, as well as himself, that he is a worthy target for the arrows of fate.

He who lives without folly isn't so wise as he thinks.

There are few people who would not be ashamed of being loved when they love no longer.

Passion often makes a fool of the cleverest man and often makes the most foolish men clever

We are so used to dissembling with others that in time we come to deceive and dissemble with ourselves.