The fund of sensible discourse is limited; that of jest and badinerie is infinite.

Deference often shrinks and withers as much upon the approach of intimacy as the sensitive plant does upon the touch of one's finger.

A liar begins with making falsehood appear like truth, and ends with making truth itself appear like falsehood.

A large retinue upon a small income, like a large cascade upon a small stream, tends to discover its tenuity.

The regard one shows economy, is like that we show an old aunt who is to leave us something at last.

Virtues, like essences, lose their fragrance when exposed. They are sensitive plants, which will not bear too familiar approaches.

Taste is pursued at a less expense than fashion.