Every man may speak truly, but to speak methodically, prudently, and fully is a talent that few men have.

Who is only good that others may know it, and that he may be the better esteemed when 'tis known, who will do well but upon condition that his virtue may be known to men, is one from whom much service is not to be expected.

I am myself the matter of my book.

Thus we should beware of clinging to vulgar opinions, and judge things by reason's way, not by popular say.

As great enmities spring from great friendships, and mortal distempers from vigorous health, so do the most surprising and the wildest frenzies from the high and lively agitations of our souls.

There is nothing of evil in life for him who rightly comprehends that death is no evil; to know how to die delivers us from all subjection and constraint.

No wonder, said an Ancient, that chance has so much power over us, since it is by chance that we live.