it is the nature of human beings, and especially of the mediocre ones, to wish to change everything. They desire it all the more because they know popularity will accrue rather to those who disturb than to those who maintain order.

Tribulation first makes one realize what one is.

Courage? The moment when my troubles are going to end is not the moment when my courage is going to fail me.

Let them eat cake.

No one understands my ills, nor the terror that fills my breast, who does not know the heart of a mother.

Farewell, my children, forever. I go to your Father.

one's enjoyment is doubled when one can share it with a friend - and where can one find a more affectionate, a more intimate friend than in one's own family?