I undertake the same project as Montaigne, but with an aim contrary to his own: for he wrote his Essays only for others, and I write my reveries only for myself.

As soon as any man says of the affairs of the State "What does it matter to me?" the State may be given up for lost.

Fame is but the breath of people, and that often unwholesome.

We cannot work for others without working for ourselves.

Liberty is not to be found in any form of government; she is in the heart of the free man; he bears her with him everywhere.

At length I recollected the thoughtless saying of a great princess, who, on being informed that the country people had no bread, replied, "Let them eat cake".

I have always said and felt that true enjoyment can not be described.