In spite of every sage whom Greece can show, Unerring wisdom never dwelt below; Folly in all of every age we see, The only difference lies in the degree.

Whatever we well understand we express clearly, and words flow with ease.

Of all the creatures that creep, swim, or fly, Peopling the earth, the waters, and the sky, From Rome to Iceland, Paris to Japan, I really think the greatest fool is man.

The wisest man is he who does not fancy that he is so at all.

With poverty everything becomes frightful.

In spite of every sage whom Greece can show, Unerring wisdom never dwelt below; Folly in all of every age we see, The only difference lies in the degree.

Happy who in his verse can gently steer, From grave to light, from pleasant to severe.