Those who make us happy are always thankful to us for being so; their gratitude is the reward of their benefits.

The most dangerous of all flattery is the inferiority of those about us.

Old age is not one of the beauties of creation, but it is one of its harmonies. The law of contrasts is one of the laws of beauty. Under the conditions of our climate, shadow gives light its worth; sternness enhances mildness; solemnity, splendor. Varying proportions of size support and subserve one another.

Strength alone knows conflict, weakness is born vanquished.

The world has no sympathy with any but positive griefs. It will pity you for what you lose; never for what you lack

We deceive ourselves when we fancy that only weakness needs support. Strength needs it far more.

Love sometimes elevates, creates new qualities, suspends the working of evil inclinations; but only for a day. Love, then, is an Oriental despot, whose glance lifts a slave from the dust, and then consigns him to it again.