Women are much more like each other than men: they have, in truth, but two passions, vanity and love; these are their universal characteristics.

For my own part, I would rather be in company with a dead man than with an absent one; for if the dead man gives me no pleasure, at least he shows me no contempt; whereas the absent one, silently indeed, but very plainly, tells me that he does not think me worth his attention.

Women are all so far Machiavellians that they are never either good or bad by halves; their passions are too strong, and their reason too weak, to do anything with moderation.

An able man shows his spirit by gentle words and resolute actions.

The most familiar and intimate habitudes, connections, friendships, require a degree of good-breeding both to preserve and cement them.

I wish... that you had as much pleasure in following my advice, as I have in giving it.

Merit and knowledge will not gain hearts, though they will secure them when gained.