It is by the benefit of letters that absent friends are in a manner brought together.
Nobody becomes guilty by fate.
Slavery holds few men fast; the greater number hold fast their slavery.
Retire into yourself as much as possible. Associate with people who are likely to improve you. Welcome those whom you are capable of improving. The process is a mutual one. People learn as they teach.
The tempest threatens before it comes; houses creak before they fall.
Ponder for a long time whether you shall admit a given person to your friendship; but when you have decided to admit him, welcome him with all your heart and soul. Speak as boldly with him as with yourself.