Do not believe that a book is good, if in reading it thou dost not become more contented with thy existence, if it does not rouse up in thee most generous feelings.

True philosophy is that which renders us to ourselves, and all others who surround us, better, and at the same time more content, more patient, more calm and more ready for all decent and pure enjoyment.

Certain trifling flaws sit as disgracefully on a character of elegance as a ragged button on a court dress.

Conscience is the sentinel of virtue.

You may depend upon it that he is a good man whose intimate friends are all good, and whose enemies are decidedly bad.

Avoid him who from mere curiosity asks three questions running about a thing that cannot interest Him.

A gift--its kind, its value and appearance; the silence or the pomp that attends it; the style in which it reaches you--may decide the dignity or vulgarity of the giver.