In my youth I thought of writing a satire on mankind! but now in my age I think I should write an apology for them.
Men more quickly and more gladly recall what they deride than what they approve and esteem.
The wolf attacks with his fang, the bull with his horn.
A jest often decides matters of importance more effectively and happily than seriousness.
Wise were the kings who never chose a friend till with full cups they had unmasked his soul, and seen the bottom of his deepest thoughts.
Joys do not fall to the rich alone; nor has he lived ill of whose birth and death no one took note.