Gold is the key, whatever else we try; and that sweet metal aids the conqueror in every case, in love as well as war.

I have the knack of easing scruples.

Birth is nothing without virtue, and we have no claim to share in the glory of our ancestors unless we endeavor to resemble them.

The proof of true love is to be unsparing in criticism.

There are pretenders to piety as well as to courage.

unbroken happiness is a bore: it should have ups and downs.

We should look long and carefully at ourselves before we pass judgement on others.