Betrayed and wronged in everything,
I’ll flee this bitter world where vice is king,
And seek some spot unpeopled and apart
Where I’ll be free to have an honest heart.

I have always hated crowds. I like deserts, prisons, and monasteries. I have discovered, too, that there are fewer idiots at 3000 meters above sea level than down below.

If perchance a friend should betray you; if he forms a subtle plot to get hold of what is yours; if people should try to spread evil reports about you, would you tamely submit to all this without flying into a rage?

It is a wonderful seasoning of all enjoyments to think of those we love.

Trees that are slow to grow bear the best fruit.

Sur quelque préférence une estime se fonde,
Et c'est n'estimer rien qu'estimer tout le monde.