“Small natures require despotism to exercise their sinews, as great souls thirst …” — Honore de Balzac

It would be curious to know what leads a man to become a stationer rather than a baker, when he is no longer compelled, as among the Egyptians, to succeed to his father's craft.

Children, dear and loving children, can alone console a woman for the loss of her beauty.

For passion, be it observed, brings insight with it; it can give a sort of intelligence to simpletons, fools, and idiots, especially during youth.

A man is a poor creature compared to a woman.