There is nothing in which men more deceive themselves than in what they call zeal.

To this end, nothing is to be more carefully consulted than plainness. In a lady's attire this is the single excellence; for to be what some people call fine, is the same vice, in that case, as to be florid is in writing or speaking.

Every one knows the veneration which was paid by the Jews to a name so great, wonderful, and holy. They would not let it enter even into their religious discourses. What can we then think of those who make use of so tremendous a name, in the ordinary expression of their anger, mirth, and most impertinent passions?

Facts are plain spoken; hopes and figures are its aversion.

When a man is made up wholly of the dove, without the least grain of the serpent in his composition, he becomes ridiculous in many circumstances of life, and very often discredits his best actions.

Quick sensitivity is inseperable from a ready understanding.

Dependence is a perpetual call upon humanity, and a greater incitement to tenderness and pity than any other motive whatever.