That which is given with pride and ostentation is rather an ambition than a bounty.

Why do I not seek some real good; one which I could feel, not one which I could display?

We are wrong in looking forward to death: in great measure it's past already.

The state of that man's mind who feels too intense an interest as to future events, must be most deplorable.

The man who while he gives thinks of what he will get in return, deserves to be deceived.

The voice of flattery affects us after it has ceased, just as after a concert men find some agreeable air ringing in their ears to the exclusion of all serious business.

Great is he who enjoys his earthenware as if it were plate, and not less great is the man to whom all his plate is no more that earthenware.