It is the stain and disgrace of the age to envy virtue, and to be
anxious to crush the read more

It is the stain and disgrace of the age to envy virtue, and to be
anxious to crush the very flower of dignity.
[Lat., Est haec saeculi labes quaedam et macula virtuti invidere,
velle ipsum florem dignitatis infringere.]

The person who talks most of his own virtue is often the least virtuous.

The person who talks most of his own virtue is often the least virtuous.

Virtue is not left to stand alone. He who practices it will have neighbors.

Virtue is not left to stand alone. He who practices it will have neighbors.

Nature does not loathe virtue: it is unaware of its existence.

Nature does not loathe virtue: it is unaware of its existence.

Prosperity discovers vice, adversity discovers virtue.

Prosperity discovers vice, adversity discovers virtue.

If we had to seek virtue outside of ourselves, that would assuredly be difficult; but as it is within us, read more

If we had to seek virtue outside of ourselves, that would assuredly be difficult; but as it is within us, it suffices to avoid bad thoughts and to keep our souls turned toward the Lord.

Assume a virtue if you have it not.

Assume a virtue if you have it not.

If you can be well without health, you may be happy without virtue.

If you can be well without health, you may be happy without virtue.

Virtue, the strength and beauty of the soul,
Is the best gift of Heaven: a happiness
That read more

Virtue, the strength and beauty of the soul,
Is the best gift of Heaven: a happiness
That even above the smiles and frowns of fate
Exalts great Nature's favourites: a wealth
That ne'er encumbers, nor can be transferr'd.