There are only two ways by which to rise in this world, either by one's own industry or by the stupidity of others.

How sweet, how passing sweet, is solitude!

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!

The most delicate, the most sensible of all pleasures, consists in promoting the pleasure of others.

The pleasure of criticizing takes away from us the pleasure of being moved by some very fine things.

If a handsome woman allows that another woman is beautiful, we may safely conclude she excels her.

Avoid lawsuits beyond all things; they pervert your conscience, impair your health, and dissipate your property.