We seldom repent talking little, but very often talking too much.
The same vices which are huge and insupportable in others we do not feel in ourselves.
Outward simplicity befits ordinary men, like a garment made to measure for them; but it serves as an adornment to those who have filled their lives with great deeds: they might be compared to some beauty carelessly dressed and thereby all the more attractive.
A prince wants only the pleasure of private life to complete his happiness.
Generosity lies less in giving much than in giving at the right moment.
Even the best intentioned of great men need a few scoundrels around them; there are some things you cannot ask an honest ma to do.