The secret of pleasing in conversation is not to explain too much everything; to say them half and leave a little for divination is a mark of the good opinion we have of others, and nothing flatters their self-love more.

There is a kind of elevation which does not depend on fortune; it is a certain air which distinguishes us, and seems to destine us for great things; it is a price which we imperceptibly set upon ourselves.

A clever man should handle his interests so that each will fall in suitable order of their value.

Affected simplicity is a subtle imposture.

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

If vanity does not entirely overthrow the virtues, at least it makes them all totter.

Absence diminishes mediocre passions and increases great ones, as the wind extinguishes candles and fans fires.