The lively phraseology of Montesquieu was the result of long meditation. His words, as light as wings, bear on them grave reflections.
Religion is fire which example keeps alive, and which goes out if not communicated.
Proverbs may be said to be the abridgment of wisdom.
Be saving, but not at the cost of all liberality. Have the soul of a king and the hand of a wise economist.
Which is more misshapen,--religion without virtue, or virtue without religion?
When a nation gives birth to a man who is able to produce a great thought, another is born who is able to understand and admire it.