When the eye or the imagination is struck with an uncommon work, the next transition of an active mind is to the means by which it was performed

When once a man has made celebrity necessary to his happiness, he has put it in the power of the weakest and most timorous malignity, if not to take away his satisfaction, at least to withhold it. His enemies may indulge their pride by airy negligence and gratify their malice by quiet neutrality.

The really happy woman is the one who can enjoy the scenery when she has to take a detour. Happiness is not a state to arrive at, but rather a manner of traveling.

Ignorance cannot always be inferred from inaccuracy; knowledge is not always present.

Our senses, our appetite, and our passions are our lawful and faithful guides in things that relate solely to this life.

It is not from reason and prudence that people marry, but from inclination.

Unintelligible language is a lantern without a light.