We are much mistaken if we think that men are always brave from a principle of valor, or women chaste from a principle of modesty.

Some counterfeits reproduce so very well the truth that it would be a flaw of judgment not to be deceived by them.

We should not judge a man's merits by his great qualities, but by the use he makes of them.

The generality of men have, like plants, latent properties, which chance brings to light.

Moderation cannot have the credit of combatiug and subduing ambition, they are never found together. Moderation is the languor and indolence of the soul, as ambition is its activity and ardor.

It is almost always a fault of one who loves not to realize when he ceases to be loved.

Our actions seem to have their lucky and unlucky stars, to which a great part of that blame and that commendation is due which is given to the actions themselves.