When we have run through all forms of government, without partiality to that we were born under, we are at a loss with which to side; they are all a compound of good and evil. It is therefore most reasonable and safe to value that of our own country above all others, and to submit to it.

The great gift of conversation lies less in displaying it ourselves than in drawing it out of others. He who leaves your company pleased with himself and his own cleverness is perfectly well pleased with you.

You may drive a dog off the King's armchair, and it will climb into the preacher's pulpit; he views the world unmoved, unembarrassed, unabashed.

It is a great misfortune neither to have enough wit to talk well nor enough judgment to be silent.

I take sanctuary in an honest mediocrity.

To forget someone means to think of him.

A vain man finds it wise to speak good or ill of himself; a modest man does not talk of himself.