Riches do not consist in the possession of treasures, but in the use made of them.

True character stands the test of emergencies. Do not be mistaken, it is weakness from which the awakening is rude.

Wisdom and policy dictate that we must do as destiny demands and keep peace with the irresistible march of events.

I am a soldier and accustomed to risking my life every day. I am full of the fire of youth; I cannot act with the restraint of an accomplished diplomat.

Europe thus divided into nationalities freely formed and free internally, peace between States would have become easier: the United States of Europe would become a possibility.

There is no Nation however small which had the right to set itself free, that has not rescued itself from the dishonour of obeying the Prince imposed by an enemy in the hour of victory.

People take England on trust, and repeat that Shakespeare is the greatest of all authors. I have read him: there is nothing that compares Racine or Corneille: his plays are unreadable, pitiful.