Truth, but not the whole truth, must be the invariable principle of every man who hath either religion, honour, or prudence. Thosewho violate it, may be cunning, but they are not able. Lies and perfidy are the refuge of fools and cowards.

Young men are apt to think themselves wise enough, as drunken men are apt to think themselves sober enough.

To govern mankind, one must not overrate them.

It seems to me that your doctor [Tronchin] is more of a philosopher than a physician. As for me, I much prefer a doctor who is anoptimist and who gives me remedies that will improve my health. Philosophical consolations are, after all, useless against real ailments. I know only two kinds of sickness--physical and moral: all the others are purely in the imagination.

Little vicious minds abound with anger and revenge and are incapable of feeling te pleasure of forgiving their enemies.

The value of moments, when cast up, is immense, if well employed; if thrown away, their loss is irrecoverable.

Remember, as long as you live, that nothing but strict truth can carry you through the world, with either your conscience or your honor unwounded.