Choose a subject equal to your abilities; think carefully what your shoulders may refuse, and what they are capable of bearing.

That man scorches with his brightness, who overpowers inferior capacities, yet he shall be revered when dead.

There are as many preferences as there are men.

For example, the tiny ant, a creature of great industry, drags with its mouth whatever it can, and adds it to the heap which she is piling up, not unaware nor careless of the future.

Nor has he lived in vain, who from his cradle to his grave has passed his life in seclusion.

High descent and meritorious deeds, unless united to wealth, are as useless as seaweed.

A man perfect to the finger tips.