Francois de La Rochefoucauld
  • However greatly we distrust the sincerity of those we converse with, yet still we think they tell more truth to us than to anyone else.

  • Some counterfeits reproduce so very well the truth that it would be a flaw of judgment not to be deceived by them.

  • Though men are apt to flatter and exalt themselves with their great achievements, yet these are, in truth, very often owing not so much to design as chance.

  • It is great folly to wish to be wise all alone.

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