Providence has hidden a charm in difficult undertakings, which is appreciated only by those who dare to grapple with them.

Silence is like nightfall. Objects are lost in it insensibly.

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

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

A good, finished scandal, fully armed and equipped, such as circulates in the world, is rarely the production of a single individual, or even of a single coterie. It sees the light in one; is rocked and nurtured in another; is petted, developed, and attains its growth in a third; and receives its finishing touches only after passing through a multitude of hands. It is a child that can count a host of fathers--all ready to disown it.

Those who have suffered much are like those who know many languages; they have learned to understand and be understood by all.

A malicious enemy is better than a clumsy friend.