I like people to be saints; but I want them to be first and superlatively honest men.

There are not good things enough in life to indemnify us for the neglect of a single duty.

The ideal friendship is to feel as one while remaining two.

It would seem that by our sorrows only are we called to a knowledge of the Infinite. Are we happy? The limits of life constrain us on all sides.

There are questions so indiscreet, that they deserve neither truth nor falsehood in reply.

Faith, amid the disorders of a sinful life, is like the lamp burning in an ancient tomb.

There are two ways of attaining an important end, force and perseverance; the silent power of the latter grows irresistible with time.