The greatest part of intimate confidences proceed from a desire either to be pitied or admired.

Our probity is not less at the mercy of fortune than our property.

We are very far from always knowing our own wishes.

The reason why lovers are never bored together is that they are always talking of themselves.

Love of fame, fear of disgrace, schemes for advancement, desire to make life comfortable and pleasant, and the urge to humiliate others are often at the root of the valour men hold in such high esteem.

We should gain more by letting the world see what we are than by trying to seem what we are not.

The truest mark of being born with great qualities is to be born without envy.