Cruelty, if we consider it as a crime, is the greatest of all; if we consider it as a madness, we are equally justifiable in applying to it the readiest and the surest means of oppression.

I never did a single wise thing in the whole course of my existence, although I have written many which have been thought so.

We cannot conquer fate and necessity, yet we can yield to them in such a manner as to be greater than if we could.

It is as wise to moderate our belief as our desires.

Virtue is presupposed in friendship.

Religion is the eldest sister of philosophy: on whatever subjects they may differ, it is unbecoming in either to quarrel, and most so about their inheritance.

We care not how many see us in choler, when we rave and bluster, and make as much noise and bustle as we can; but if the kindest and most generous affection comes across us, we suppress every sign of it, and hide ourselves in nooks and covert.