We Speak Little If Not Egged On

Our Actions Seem To Have Their Lucky And Unlucky Stars, To Which A Great Part Of That Blame And That Commendation Is Due Which Is Given To The Actions Themselves.

That Conduct Often Seems Ridiculous The Secret Reasons Of Which Are Wise And Solid.

High Fortune Makes Both Our Virtues And Vices Stand Out As Objects That Are Brought Clearly To View By The Light.

Moderation Is Represented As A Virtue In Order To Restrain The Ambition Of Great Men, And To Console Those Of A Meaner Condition In Their Lesser Merit And Fortune.

If We Never Flattered Ourselves We Should Have But Scant Pleasure.