I recognize in [my readers] a specific form and individual property, which our predecessors called Pantagruelism, by means of which they never take anything the wrong way that they know to stem from good, honest and loyal hearts.

I am going to seek a great purpose, draw the curtain, the farce is played.

Indeed, said the monk, a mass, a matins, and vespers well rung are half-said.

The deed will be accomplished with the least amount of bloodshed possible, and, if possible ..., we'll save all the souls and send them happily off to their abode.

I drink no more than a sponge.

Such is the nature and make-up of the French that they are only good at the start. Then they are worse than devils, but, given time, they're less than women.

I have known many who could not when they would, for they had not done it when they could.