The most fruitful and natural exercise for our minds is, in my opinion, conversation.

Difficulty is a coin the learned make use of like jugglers, to conceal the inanity of their art.

There is nothing on which men are commonly more intent than on making a way for their opinions.

It is probable that the principal credit of miracles, visions, enchantments, and such extraordinary occurrences comes from the power of imagination, acting principally upon the minds of the common people, which are softer.

We imagine much more appropriately an artisan on his toilet seat or on his wife than a great president, venerable by his demeanorand his ability. It seems to us that they do not stoop from their lofty thrones even to live.

I do myself a greater injury in lying than I do him of whom I tell a lie.

Fortune, seeing that she could not make fools wise, has made them lucky.