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

Politeness does not always inspire goodness, equity, complaisance, and gratitude; it gives at least the appearance of these qualities, and makes man appear outwardly, as he should be within.

A man of the world must seem to be what he wishes to be thought.

Genius and great abilities are often wanting; sometimes, only opportunities. Some deserve praise for what they have done; others for what they would have done.

There are some who speak one moment before they think

The mind, like all other things, will become impaired, the sciences are its food,--they nourish, but at the same time they consume it.