Persons of rank do not talk about such trifles as the common people do; but the common people do not busy themselves about such frivolous things as do persons of rank.

There are men who are happy without knowing it.

Our failings sometimes bind us to one another as closely as could virtue itself.

It is a great sign of mediocrity to praise always moderately.

Whatever affection we have for our friends or relations, the happiness of others never suffices for our own.

The common excuse for those bringing misfortune on others is that they desire their good.

Newton, Pascal, Bossuet, Racine, F?nelon -- that is to say, some of the most enlightened men on earth, in the most philosophical of all ages -- have been believers in Jesus Christ; and the great Cond?, when dying, repeated these noble words, "Yes, I shall see God as He is, face to face!".