Our credulity is a part of the imperfection of our natures. It is inherent in us to desire to generalize, when we ought, on the contrary, to guard ourselves very carefully from this tendency.

What is the future? What is the past? What are we? What is the magic fluid that surrounds us and conceals the things we most need to know? We live and die in the midst of marvels.

If you wish to be a success in the world, promise everything, deliver nothing.

What is history but a fable agreed upon?

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.

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

There is one kind of robber whom the law does not strike at, and who steals what is most precious to men: time.