Our desires always disappoint us; for though we meet with something that gives us satisfaction, yet it never thoroughly answers our expectation. [However disappointment can always be removed if we remember it could have turned out worse.]

No man is clever enough to know all the evil he does.

Pity is a sense of our own misfortunes in those of another man; it is a sort of foresight of the disasters which may befall ourselves. We assist others,, in order that they may assist us on like occasions; so that the services we offer to the unfortunate are in reality so many anticipated kindnesses to ourselves.

There are crimes which become innocent and even glorious through their splendor, number and excess.

Silence is the best tactic for he who distrusts himself.

The heart is forever making the head its fool.

In love we often doubt what we most believe.