The favor of princes does not preclude the existence of merit, and yet does not prove that it exists. — Jean De La Bruyere Copy Share Image
True merit does not depend on the times or on fashion. Those who have no other advantage than courtly manners lose it… — Madeleine de Souvre, marquise de Sable Copy Share Image
The Sage expects no recognition for what he does; he achieves merit but does not take it to himself; he does not… — Laozi Copy Share Image
