How far is truth susceptible of embodiment? That is the question, that is the experiment.

It is our taste that decides against Christianity now, no longer our reasons.

If we lacked curiosity, we should do less for the good of our neighbor. But, under the name of duty or pity, curiosity steals into the home of the unhappy and the needy. Perhaps even in the famous mother-love there is a good deal of curiosity.

The best friend will probably acquire the best wife, because a good marriage is founded on the talent for friendship.

The view that honesty is something, and even a virtue, belongs, it is true, to those private opinions which are forbidden in this age of public opinions.

All idealism is falsehood in the face of necessity.

When the gratitude of many to one throws away all shame, we behold fame.