Wit lies in recognizing the resemblance among things which differ and the difference between things which are alike.

Divine Wisdom, intending to detain us some time on earth, has done well to cover with a veil the prospect of the life to come; for if our sight could clearly distinguish the opposite bank, who would remain on this tempestuous coast of time?

When women oppose themselves to the projects and ambition of men, they excite their lively resentment; if in their youth they meddle with political intrigues, their modesty must suffer.

Conversation as talent exists only in France. In other countries, conversation provides politeness, discussion, and friendship; in France, it is an art for which imagination and soul are certainly very welcome, but which can also provide its own secret remedies to compensate you for the absence of either or both, if you so desire.

Self-love, so sensitive in its own cause, has rarely any sympathy to spare for others.

O memory, thou bitter sweet,--both a joy and a scourge!

The greatest happiness is to transform one's feelings into action.