The aged oak upon the steep stands more firm and secure if assailed by angry winds; for if the winter bares its head, the more strongly it strikes its roots into the ground, acquiring strength as it loses beauty.

Of all faults the greatest is the excess of impious terror, dishonoring divine grace. He who despairs wants love, wants faith; for faith, hope, and love are three torches which blend their light together, nor does the one shine without the other.

The canker which the trunk conceals is revealed by the leaves, the fruit, or the flower.

An old warrior is never in haste to strike the blow.

It is the just decree of Heaven that a traitor never sees his danger till his ruin is at hand.

It is by no means a fact that death is the worst of all evils; when it comes it is an alleviation to mortals who are worn out with sufferings.

How full of error is the judgment of mankind! They wonder at results when they are ignorant of the reasons