Alphonse de Lamartine

Providence conceals itself in the details of human affairs, but becomes unveiled in the generalities of history.

A conscience without God is like a court without a judge.

There is a woman at the beginning of all great things.

To love for the sake of being loved is human, but to love for the sake of loving is angelic.

Private passions tire and exhaust themselves, public ones never.

Experience is the only prophecy of wise men.

Grief knits two hearts in closer bonds than happiness ever can; and common sufferings are far stronger links than common joys.

Limited in his nature, infinite in his desire, man is a fallen god who remembers heaven.