When men have to do with women, they get spun off like a distaff.
It may well be that a man is at times horribly threshed by misfortunes, public and private: but the reckless flail of Fate, when it beats the rich sheaves, crushes only the straw; and the corn feels nothing of it and dances merrily on the floor, careless whether its way is to the mill or the furrow.
However probable it is that a desire may be fulfilled, there is always a doubt; and so when the desire is realised, it is always surprising.
Absurdities presented with good taste rouse disgust and admiration.
Of the best society it used to be said: their speech instructs the mind, and their silence the feelings.