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

Narrow minds think nothing right that is above their own capacity.

Everyone agrees that a secret should be kept intact, but everyone does not agree as to the nature and importance of secrecy. Too often we consult ourselves as to what we should say, what we should leave unsaid. There are few permanent secrets, and the scruple against revealing them will not last forever.

The best way to rise in society is to use all possible means of persuading people that one has already risen in society.

How can we expect another to keep our secret if we have been unable to keep it ourselves?

In friendship, as in love, we are often more happy from the things we are ignorant of than from those we are acquainted with.

Perseverance is neither praiseworthy nor blameworthy; for it seems to be only the enduring of certain inclinations and opinions which men neither give themselves nor take away from themselves.