An able reader often discovers in other people's writings perfections beyond those that the author put in or perceived, and lends them richer meanings and aspects.

If by being overstudious, we impair our health and spoil our good humor, let us give it up.

Decency, not to dare to do that in public which it is decent enough to do in private.

The wise man should withdraw his soul within, out of the crowd, and keep it in freedom and power to judge things freely; but as for externals, he should wholly follow the accepted fashions and forms.

I honor most those to whom I show least honor; and where my soul moves with great alacrity, I forget the proper steps of ceremony.

Life itself is neither a good nor an evil: life is where good or evil find a place, depending on how you make it for them.

Poverty of goods is easily cured; poverty of soul, impossible.