one would suffer a great deal to be happy.

I am in perfect health, and hear it said I look better than ever I did in my life, which is one of those lies one is always glad to hear.

Muse, time has taught me that all metaphysical systems, even historical facts given as truths, are hardly that, so I amuse myself with more agreeable lies; I no longer read anything but novels.

Tis the established custom [in Vienna] for every lady to have two husbands, one that bears the name, and another that performs the duties.

Satire should, like a polished razor keen, Wound with a touch that's scarcely felt or seen.

No entertainment is so cheap as reading, nor any pleasure so lasting.

Nobody should trust their virtue with necessity, the force of which is never known till it is felt, and it is therefore one of the first duties to avoid the temptation of it.