The great and glorious masterpiece of men is to live to the point. All other things-to reign, to hoard, to build-are, at most, but inconsiderable props and appendages.

Natural inclinations are assisted and reinforced by education, but they are hardly ever altered or overcome.

One should always have one's boots on and be ready to leave.

The ceaseless labour of your life is to build the house of death.

The beginnings of all things are weak and tender. We must therefore be clear-sighted in the beginnings, for, as in their budding we discern not the danger, so in their full growth we perceive not the remedy.

A lady could not boast of her chastity who was never tempted.

Silence and modesty are very valuable qualities in conversation.