The faults of the burglar are the qualities of the financier.

My main reason for adopting literature as a profession was that, as the author is never seen by his clients, he need not dress respectably.

Man gives every reason for his conduct save one, every excuse for his crimes save one, every plea for his safety save one; and that one is his cowardice

Power does not corrupt men; fools, however, if they get into a position of power, corrupt power.

I never resist temptation, because I have found that things that are bad for me do not tempt me.

In an ugly and unhappy world the richest man can purchase nothing but ugliness and unhappiness.

Virtue is insufficient temptation.