I read these words which are the sum of all moral philosophy, and which cut short all the disputes of the casuists: When in doubt if an action is good or bad, refrain.

War is the greatest of all crimes; and yet there is no aggressor who does not color his crime with the pretext of justice.

We all look for happiness, but without knowing where to find it: like drunkards who look for their house, knowing dimly that they have one.

Our labour preserves us from three great evils -- weariness, vice, and want.

Independence in the end is the fruit of injustice.

The superfluous, a very necessary thing.

I know of no great men except those who have rendered great service to the human race.

Being a bird ain't all about flying and shitting from high places.

The biggest reward for a thing well done is to have done it.

It is not love that should be depicted as blind, but self-love.

It is clear that the individual who persecutes a man, his brother, because he is not of the same opinion, is a monster.

The husband who decides to surprise his wife is often very much surprised himself.

What a heavy burden is a name that has become too famous.

The ancients recommended us to sacrifice to the Graces, but Milton sacrificed to the Devil.

True power and true politeness are above vanity.

History is only the pattern of silken slippers descending the stairs to the thunder of hobnailed boots climbing upward from below.

Illusion is the first of all pleasures.

Let us meet four times a year in a grand temple with music, and thank God for all his gifts. There is one sun. There is one God. Let us have one religion. Then all mankind will be brethren.

Reading nurtures the soul, and an enlightened friend brings it solace.

Each player must accept the cards life deals him or her. But once they are in hand, he or she alone must decide how to play the cards in order to win the game.