We are nearer neighbors to ourselves than the whiteness of snow or the weight of stones are to us: if man does not know himself, how should he know his functions and powers?

The most regular and most perfect soul in the world has but too much to do to keep itself upright from being overthrown by its own weakness.

A father is very miserable who has no other hold on his children's affection than the need they have of his assistance, if that can be called affection.

Those who give the first shock to a state are the first overwhelmed in its ruin; the fruits of public commotion are seldom enjoyed by him who was the first mover; he only beats the water for another's net.

The most certain sign of wisdom is a continual cheerfulness; her state is like that of things in the regions above the moon, always clear and serene.

Covetousness is both the beginning and the end of the devil's alphabet - the first vice in corrupt nature that moves, and the last which dies.

I have seen people rude by being over-polite.