The noblest deeds are well enough set forth in simple language; emphasis spoils them.

This great misfortune, to be incapable of solitude.

If it be usual to be strongly impressed by things that are scarce, why are we so little impressed by virtue?

Let us not envy some men their accumulated riches; their burden would be too heavy for us; we could not sacrifice, as they do, health, quiet, honor and conscience, to obtain them: It is to pay so dear from them that the bargain is a loss.

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.

Every man is valued in this world as he shows by his conduct that he wishes to be valued.

Politeness makes one appear outwardly as they should be within.