Nothing is more seductive for a man than his freedom of conscience, but nothing is a greater cause of suffering.

they may all be drunk at my place, but they're all honest, and though we do lie-because I lie, too-in the end we'll lie our way to the truth

That's always the way with fanatics; they cross themselves at the tavern and throw stones at the temple.

... what you need more than anything in life is a definite position.

There are three forces, the only three forces capable of conquering and enslaving forever the conscience of these weak rebels in the interests of their own happiness. They are: the miracle, the mystery and authority.

She looked much younger than her age, indeed, which is almost always the case with women who retain serenity of spirit, sensitiveness and pure sincere warmth of heart to old age.

The man who has a conscience suffers whilst acknowledging his sin. That is his punishment.