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.

It is a common fault never to be satisfied with our fortune, nor dissatisfied with our understanding.

Heat of blood makes young people change their inclinations often, and habit makes old ones keep to theirs a great while.

Great men should not have great faults.

If we had no faults, we would not derive so much pleasure from noting those of other people.

The courage of a great many men, and the virtue of a great many women, are the effect of vanity, shame, and especially a suitabletemperament.

Wisdom is the mind what health is to the body.