We may so seize on virtue, that if we embrace it with an overgreedy and violent desire, it may become vicious.

It costs an unreasonable woman no more to pass over one reason than another; they cherish themselves most where they are most wrong.

Those who give the first shock to a state are the first overwhelmed in its ruin; the fruits of public commotion are seldom enjoyed by him who was the first mover; he only beats the water for another's net.

Each man calls barbarism whatever is not his own practice; for indeed it seems we have no other test of truth and reason than the example and pattern of the opinions and customs of the country we live in

In truth, the care and expense of our fathers aims only at furnishing our heads with knowledge; of judgement and virtue, little news.

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.

The finest souls are those that have the most variety and suppleness.