We are more prone to murmur at the punishment of our faults than to lament them.

Many minds that have withstood the most severe trials have been broken down by a succession of ignoble cares.

I see little alteration at Lyons since I formerly passed through it. Its manufactories are, nevertheless, flourishing, though less improvement than could be expected is visible in the external aspect of the place.

The difference between weakness and wickedness is much less than people suppose; and the consequences are nearly always the same.

Society seldom forgives those who have discovered the emptiness of its pleasures, and who can live independent of it and them.

People are always willing to follow advice when it accords with their own wishes.

Mediocrity is beneath a brave soul.