The most important things must be said simply, for they are spoiled by bombast; whereas trivial things must be described grandly, for they are supported only by aptness of expression, tone and manner.

It's motive alone which gives character to the actions of men.

How much wit, good-nature, indulgences, how many good offices and civilities, are required among friends to accomplish in some years what a lovely face or a fine hand does in a minute!

Eloquence may be found in conversations and in all kinds of writings; it is rarely found when looked for, and sometimes discovered where it is least expected.

Men blush less for their crimes than for their weaknesses and vanity.

To endeavor to forget anyone is a certain way of thinking of nothing else.

As riches and honor forsake a man, we discover him to be a fool, but nobody could find it out in his prosperity.