To compose our character is our duty, not to compose books, and to win, not battles and provinces, but order and tranquillity in our conduct.

It has never occurred to me to wish for empire or royalty, nor for the eminence of those high and commanding fortunes. My aim lies not in that direction; I love myself too well.

How many things we held yesterday as articles of faith which today we tell as fables.

Philosophical discussions habitually make men happy and joyful not frowning and sad.

To say less of yourself than is true is stupidity, not modesty. To pay yourself less than you are worth is cowardice and pusillanimity.

Persons of mean understandings, not so inquisitive, nor so well instructed, are made good Christians, and by reverence and obedience, implicity believe, and abide by their belief.

There is no desire more natural than the desire of knowledge. (Il n'est desir plus naturel que le desir de connaissance)