Ambition becomes displeasing when it is once satiated; there is a reaction; and as our spirit, till our last sigh, is always aiming toward some object, it falls back on itself, having nothing else on which to rest; and having reached the summit, it longs to descend.

It matters more how one gives than what one gives

We never taste a perfect joy; our happiest successes are mixed with sadness.

Happiness is meant to be shared.

It is the guilt, not the scaffold, which constitutes the shame.

These flattering mirrors reflect imperfectly what is within; the countenance is often a gay deceiver. What defects of mind lie hidden under its beauty! What fair exteriors conceal base souls!

Master of the universe but not of myself, I am the only rebel against my absolute power.