Flattery pleases very generally. In the first place, the flatterer may think what he says to be true; but, in the second place, whether he thinks so or not, he certainly thinks those whom he flatters of consequence enough to be flattered.

It is necessary to the success of flattery, that it be accommodated to particular circumstances or characters, and enter the heart on that side where the passions are ready to receive it.

Of all wild beasts preserve me from a tyrant; And of all tame, a flatterer.

Learn that every flatterer Lives at the flattered listeners cost.

We imagine sometimes that we hate flattery, but it is only the manner of flattering which we hate.

There is no other way of guarding oneself against flattery than by letting men understand that they will not offend you by speaking the truth; but when everyone can tell you the truth, you lose their respect.

The world is grown so full of dissimulation and compliment, that men's words are hardly any signification of their thoughts.

Flattery is all right-if you don't inhale.

Love of flattery, in most men, proceeds from the mean opinion they have of themselves; in women, from the contrary.

We despise no source that can pay us a pleasing attention.