We often look with indifference on the successive parts of something that, if the whole were seen together, would shake us with emotion.

To be flattered is grateful, even when we know that our praises are not believed by those who pronounce them; for they prove, at least, our power, and show that our favour is valued, since it is purchased by the meanness of falsehood.

Every desire is a viper in the bosom, who while he was chill was harmless; but when warmth gave him strength, exerted it in poison.

Those writers who lie on the watch for novelty can have little hope of greatness; for great things cannot have escaped former observation.

Marriage is the best state for man in general, and every man is a worst man in proportion to the level he is unfit for marriage.

That is the happiest conversation where there is no competition, no vanity, but a calm, quiet interchange of sentiments...

It seems to be remarkable that death increases our veneration for the good, and extenuates our hatred for the bad.