We commend a horse for his strength, and sureness of foot, and not for his rich caparisons; a greyhound for his share of heels, not for his fine collar; a hawk for her wing, not for her jesses and bells. Why, in like manner, do we not value a man for what is properly his own? He has a great train, a beautiful palace, so much credit, so many thousand pounds a year, and all these are about him, but not in him.
Michel de MontaigneA father is very miserable who has no other hold on his children's affection than the need they have of his assistance, if that can be called affection.
Michel de MontaigneThe desire for riches is more sharpened by their use than by their need. Pleasing all: a mark that can never be aimed at or hit.
Michel de MontaigneI agree that we should work and prolong the functions of life as far as we can, and hope that Death may find me planting my cabbages, but indifferent to him and still more to the unfinished state of my garden.
Michel de Montaigne