A person places themselves on a level with the ones they praise.

All that is noble is in itself of a quiet nature, and appears to sleep until it is aroused and summoned forth by contrast.

It is easier to perceive error than to find truth, for the former lies on the surface and is easily seen, while the latter lies in the depth, where few are willing to search for it.

Certain faults are necessary for the existence of the individual. We would resent it if old friends were to get rid of certain peculiarities.

I can promise to be sincere, but I cannot promise to be impartial.

Excellence is rarely found, more rarely valued.

The safest thing is always to try to convert everything that is in us and around us into action; let the others talk and argue about it as they please.