We pardon as long as we love.

We often credit ourselves with vices the reverse of what we have, thus when weak we boast of our obstinacy.

However glorious an action in itself, it ought not to pass for great if it be not the effect of wisdom and intention.

Humility is often only feigned submission which people use to render others submissive. It is a subterfuge of pride which lowers itself in order to rise.

It may be said that the vices await us in the journey of life like hosts with whom we must successively lodge; and I doubt whether experience would make us avoid them if we were to travel the same road a second time.

The passions do very often give birth to others of a nature most contrary to their own. Thus avarice sometimes brings forth prodigality, and prodigality avarice; a man's resolution is very often the effect of levity, and his boldness that of cowardice and fear.

It is as commendable to think well of oneself when alone, as it is ridiculous to speak well of oneself among others.