The nearer we approach great men, the clearer we see that they are men.

The events we most desire do not happen; or, if they do, it is neither in the time nor in the circumstances when they would have given us extreme pleasure.

Avoid making yourself the subject of conversation.

All the world says of a coxcomb that he is a coxcomb; but no one dares to say so to his face, and he dies without knowing it.

A coxcomb is one whom simpletons believe to be a man of merit.

The generality of men expend the early part of their lives in contributing to render the latter part miserable.

A woman is easily governed, if a man takes her in hand.