But as to the affection which anyone may have for us, it is the first demand of duty that we do most for him who loves us most; but we should measure affection, not like youngsters, by the ardour of its passion, but rather by its strength and constancy.

Frivolity is inborn, conceit acquired by education.

I follow nature as the surest guide, and resign myself with implicit obedience to her sacred ordinances.

Hatred is inveterate anger.

The first bond of society is marriage.

Of all nature's gifts to the human race, what is sweeter to a man than his children?

Little by little old age renders the body less powerful.