If virtue cannot shine bright, but by the conflict of contrary appetites, shall we then say that she cannot subsist without the assistance of vice, and that it is from her that she derives her reputation and honor?

When I play with my cat, who knows but that she regards me more as a plaything than I do her?

Kings and philosophers shit; and so do ladies.

No one is exempt from talking nonsense; the misfortune is to do it solemnly.

Opinion is a powerful party, bold, and without measure.

The oldest and best known evil was ever more supportable than one that was new and untried.

Men ... are not agreed about any one thing, not even that heaven is over our heads.

How often, being moved under a false cause, if the person offending makes a good defense and presents us with a just excuse, are we angry against truth and innocence itself?

The births of all things are weak and tender, and therefore we should have our eyes intent on beginnings.

The conduct of our lives is the true mirror of our doctrine.