If there were a nation of Gods, it would govern itself democratically. A government so perfect is not suited to men.

What wisdom can you find that is greater than kindness?

A citizen should render to the state all the services he can as soon as the sovereign demands them.

O love, if I regret the age when one savors you, it is not for the hour of pleasure, but for the one that follows it.

Why should we build our happiness on the opinons of others, when we can find it in our own hearts?

When my reason is afloat, my faith cannot long remain in suspense, and I believe in God as firmly as in any other truth whatever; in short, a thousand motives draw me to the consolatory side, and add the weight of hope to the equilibrium of reason.

The thirst after happiness is never extinguished in the heart of man.