Our virtues, as well as our vices, are often scourges for our own backs.

A priest can achieve great victories with an army of women at his command.

The strongest proof of repentance is the endeavor to atone.

Self-assertion may deceive the ignorant for a time; but when the noise dies away, we cut open the drum, and find it was emptiness that made the music.

A modern writer likens coquettes to those hunters who do not eat the game which they have successfully pursued.

Of course there are exceptional circumstances, and there is exceptional talent; but, unhappily, exceptional talent does not always win its reward unless favoured by exceptional circumstances.

Our virtues, as well as our vices, are often scourges for our own backs.