We find ourselves more taken with the running up and down, the games, and puerile simplicities of our children, than we do, afterward, with their most complete actions; as if we had loved them for our sport, like monkeys, and not as men.

No-one is exempt from speaking nonsense – the only misfortune is to do it solemnly.

We only labor to stuff the memory, and leave the conscience and the understanding unfurnished and void.

A man may by custom fortify himself against pain, shame, and suchlike accidents; but as to death, we can experience it but once, and are all apprentices when we come to it

Vexations may be petty, but they are vexations still.

Fame and tranquility can never be bedfellows.

I do not speak the minds of others except to speak my own mind better.