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.

He who has never denied himself for the sake of giving has but glanced at the joys of charity.

A malicious enemy is better than a clumsy friend.

Men are always invoking justice; yet it is justice which should make them tremble.

People read every thing nowadays, except books.

Since there must be chimeras, why is not perfection the chimera of all men?

Strength alone knows conflict, weakness is born vanquished.