Reason is a bee, and exists only on what it makes; his usefulness takes the place of beauty.

Genius begins beautiful works, but only labor finishes them.

A maxim is the exact and noble expression of an important and indisputable truth. Good maxims are the germs of all excellence; when firmly fixed on the memory, they nourish the will.

What is true by lamplight is not always true by sunlight.

The passions should be purged; all may become innocent if they are well directed and moderated. Even hatred maybe a commendable feeling when it is caused by a lively love of good. Whatever makes the passions pure, makes them stronger, more durable, and more enjoyable.

Fully to understand a grand and beautiful thought requires, perhaps, as much time as to conceive it.

The lively phraseology of Montesquieu was the result of long meditation. His words, as light as wings, bear on them grave reflections.