There is nothing more to be esteemed than a manly firmness and decision of character.
Nothing is more unjust or capricious than public opinion.
Those who are pleased with the fewest things know the least, as those who are pleased with everything know nothing.
The ignorance of the world leaves one at the mercy of its malice.
Learning is its own exceeding great reward.
In some situations, if you say nothing, you are called dull; if you talk, you are thought impertinent and arrogant. It is hard to know what to do in this case. The question seems to be, whether your vanity or your prudence predominates.