We should live as if we were in public view, and think, too, as if someone could peer into the inmost recesses of our hearts-which someone can!

What's the good of dragging up sufferings which are over, of being unhappy now just because you were then.

Whatever fortune has raised to a height, she has raised only to cast it down.

It is expedient for the victor to wish for peace restored; for the vanquished it is necessary.

There is more heroism in self-denial than in deeds of arms.

He who has fostered the sweet poison of love by fondling it, finds it too late to refuse the yoke which he has of his own accord assumed.

It is man's duty to live in conformity with the divine will, and this means, firstly, bringing his life into line with 'nature's laws', and secondly, resigning himself completely and uncomplainingly to whatever fate may send him. Only by living thus, and not setting too high a value on things which can at any moment be taken away from him, can he discover that true, unshakeable peace and contentment to which ambition, luxury and above all avarice are among the greatest obstacles.