Few people have the wisdom to prefer the criticism that would do them good, to the praise that deceives them.

We seldom find any person of good sense, except those who share our opinions.

Absence diminishes mediocre passions and increases great ones, as the wind extinguishes candles and fans fires.

As great minds have the faculty of saying a great deal in a few words, so lesser minds have a talent of talking much, and saying nothing.

There is a kind of elevation which does not depend on fortune it is a certain air which distinguishes us, and seems to destine us for great things it is a price which we imperceptibly set upon ourselves.

It is a great act of cleverness to be able to conceal one's being clever.

What seems to be generosity is often no more than disguised ambition, which overlooks a small interest in order to secure a great one.

A great many men's gratitude is nothing but a secret desire to hook in more valuable kindnesses hereafter.

However glorious an action in itself, it ought not to pass for great if it be not the effect of wisdom and intention.

They that apply themselves to trifling matters commonly become incapable of great ones.