There is a luxury in self-reproach. When we blame ourselves, we feel that no one else has a right to blame us. It is the confession, not the priest, that gives us absolution.

When a woman marries again, it is because she detested her first husband. When a man marries again, it is because he adored his first wife. Women try their luck; men risk theirs.

Whenever a man does a thoroughly stupid thing, it is always from the noblest motives.

Children begin by loving their parents; as they grow older they judge them; sometimes they forgive them.

I can believe anything, provided that it is quite incredible.

The advantage of the emotions is that they lead us astray, and the advantage of science is that it is not emotional.

I adore simple pleasures. They are the last refuge of the complex.

I like persons better than principles, and I like persons with no principles better than anything else in the world.