Some authors regard morality in the same light as we regard modern architecture. Convenience is the first thing to be looked for.

As soon as an opinion becomes common it is sufficient reason for men to abandon it and to uphold the opposite opinion until that in its turn grows old, and they require to distinguish themselves by other things. Thus if they attain their goal in some art or science, we must expect them soon to cast it aside to acquire some fresh fame, and this is partly the reason why the most splendid ages degenerate so quickly, and, scarcely emerged from barbarism, plunge into it again.

One promises much, to avoid giving little.

The counsels of the old, like the winter sun, shine, but give no heat.

The mind reaches great heights only by spurts.

Patience is the art of hoping.

To possess taste, one must have some soul.