The Princess Borghese, Bonaparte's sister, who was no saint, sat to Canova as a reclining Venus, and being asked if she did not feel a little uncomfortable, replied, "No. There was a fire in the room."
William HazlittThe assumption of merit is easier, less embarrassing, and more effectual than the actual attainment of it.
William HazlittWe are very much what others think of us. The reception our observations meet with gives us courage to proceed, or damps our efforts.
William Hazlitt