It is unjust to exact that men shall do out of deference to our advice what they have no desire to do for themselves.

As it is natural to believe many things without proof, so, despite all proof, is it natural to disbelieve others.

When we are sick our virtues and our vices are in abeyance.

To achieve great things we must live as though we were never going to die.

It is easy to criticize an author, but difficult to appreciate him.

Men sometimes feel injured by praise because it assigns a limit to their merit; few people are modest enough not to take offense that one appreciates them.

Our virtues are dearer to us the more we have had to suffer for them. It is the same with our children. All profound affection admits a sacrifice.