There are few things on which we can pass a sincere judgement, because there are few things in which we have not, in one way or another, a particular interest.

It makes me hate accepting things that are probable when they are held up before me as infallibly true. I prefer these words which tone down and modify the hastiness of our propositions: "Perhaps, In some sort, Some, They say, I think," and the like.

I see several animals that live so entire and perfect a life, some without sight, others without hearing: who knows whether to us also one, two, or three, or many other senses, may not be wanting?

Authors communicate with the people by some special extrinsic mark; I am the first to do so by my entire being, as Michel de Montaigne.

A man must learn to endure patiently what he cannot avoid conveniently.

All I say is by way of discourse, and nothing by way of advice. I should not speak so boldly if it were my due to be believed.

Not being able to govern events, I govern myself, and apply myself to them if they will not apply themselves to me.