The character of false wit is that of appearing to depend only upon reason.
In order to protect himself from force, man was obliged to submit to justice. Justice or force: he was compelled to choose between the two masters, so little are we made to be independent.
When we are sick our virtues and our vices are in abeyance.
He who seeks fame by the practice of virtue asks only for what he deserves.
Whatever affection we have for our friends or relations, the happiness of others never suffices for our own.
The best things are the most common.
Servitude debases men to the point where they end up liking it.
Some authors regard morality in the same light as we regard modern architecture. Convenience is the first thing to be looked for.
Magnanimity will not consider the prudence of its motives.
As a house implies a builder, and a garment a weaver, and a door a carpenter, so does the existence of the Universe imply a Creator.
It is easier to say new things than to reconcile those which have already been said.
There is nothing that fear and hope does not permit men to do.
