We part more easily with what we possess, than with our expectations of what we wish for; because expectation always goes beyond enjoyment.

Every man, however little, makes a figure in his own eyes.

Great wants proceed from great wealth; but they are undutiful children, for they sink wealth down to poverty.

Nothing so uncertain as general reputation. A man injures me from humor, passion, or interest; hates me because he has injured me; and speaks ill of me because he hates me.

The truly generous is the truly wise, and he who loves not others lives unblest!

Men are guided less by conscience than by glory; and yet the shortest way to glory is to be guided by conscience.

Whoever appears to have much cunning has in reality very little; being deficient in the essential article, which is, to hide cunning.