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

Virtue by calculation is the virtue of vice.

Be charitable and indulge to everyone, but thyself.

There is in the soul a taste for the good, just as there is in the body an appetite for enjoyment.

Strength is not energy; some authors have more muscles than talent.

Men must be either the slaves of duty, or the slaves of force.

Lenity is a part of justice; but she must not speak too loud for fear of waking justice.