It is only certain that there is nothing certain, and that nothing is more miserable or more proud than man.

The births of all things are weak and tender and therefore we should have our eyes intent on beginnings.

One man may have some special knowledge at first-hand about the character of a river or a spring, who otherwise knows only what everyone else knows. Yet to give currency to this shred of information, he will undertake to write on the whole science of physics. From this fault many great troubles spring.

I say that male and female are cast in the same mold; except for education and habits, the difference is not great.

Time steals away without any inconvenience.

Who is it that does not voluntarily exchange his health, his repose, and his very life for reputation and glory? The most useless, frivolous, and false coin that passes current among us.

Children's games are hardly games. Children are never more serious than when they play.