It has never occurred to me to wish for empire or royalty, nor for the eminence of those high and commanding fortunes. My aim lies not in that direction; I love myself too well.

The lack of wealth is easily repaired but the poverty of the soul is irreplaceable.

All I say is by way of discourse, and nothing by way of advice. I should not speak so boldly if it were my due to be believed.

Not because Socrates said so, but because it is in truth my own disposition — and perchance to some excess — I look upon all men as my compatriots, and embrace a Pole as a Frenchman, making less account of the national than of the universal and common bond.

What kind of truth is this which is true on one side of a mountain and false on the other?

We should rather examine, who is better learned, than who is more learned.

To know how to live is my trade and my art.