War is a lottery in which nations ought to risk nothing but small amounts.

The strong man is the one who is able to intercept at will the communication between the senses and the mind.

My true glory is not to have won 40 battles ... Waterloo will erase the memory of so many victories, ... But ... what will live forever, is my Civil Code.

A great reserve and severity of manners are necessary for the command of those who are older than ourselves.

When I was happy I thought I knew men, but it was fated that I should know them in misfortune only.

I have doubtless erred more or less in politics, but a crime I never committed.

In my youth I, too, entertained some illusions; but I soon recovered from them.