Presumption is our natural and original malady. The most vulnerable and frail of all creatures is man, and at the same time the most arrogant.

Some, either from being glued to vice by a natural attachment, or from long habit, no longer recognize its ugliness.

Have you been able to think out and manage your own life? You have done the greatest task of all.... All other things, ruling, hoarding, building, are only little appendages and props, at most.

Death pays all debts.

It is an absolute perfection... to get the very most out of one's individuality.

Who is it that does not voluntarily exchange his health, his repose, and his very life for reputation and glory? The most useless, frivolous, and false coin that passes current among us.

My life has been full of terrible misfortunes most of which never happened.