Reason ought not, like vanity, to adorn herself with ancient parchments, and the display of a genealogical tree; more dignified in her proceedings, and proud of her immortal nature, she ought to derive everything from herself.

Where love and wisdom drink out of the same cup, in this everyday world, it is the exception.

The old age of women is bearable only on condition that they do not take up any room, do not make any noise, do not demand any service; on condition that they render all the service that is expected of them, and actually have no existence except for the good of others.

Remarkable places are like the summits of rocks; eagles and reptiles only can get there.

Innocence and mystery never dwell long together.

When death gives us a long lease of life, it takes as hostages all those whom we have loved.

The heart of a good man is the sanctuary of God in this world.