Those who aim at great deeds must also suffer greatly.

It is not the most distinguished achievements that men's virtues or vices may be best discovered; but very often an action of small note. An casual remark or joke shall distinguish a person's real character more than the greatest sieges, or the most important battles.

The talkative listen to no one, for they are ever speaking. And the first evil that attends those who know not to be silent is that they hear nothing.

The state of life is most happy where superfluities are not required and necessities are not wanting.

Know how to listen, and you will profit even from those who talk badly.

It was not important how many enemies there are, but where the enemy is

Among real friends there is no rivalry or jealousy of one another, but they are satisfied and contented alike whether they are equal or one of them is superior.