The courtesans, as Vandeuvres used to say, avenged public morality by emptying his money bags. — Emile Zola

Like those antique monsters whose redoubtable domains were covered with skeletons, she rested her feet on human skulls. She was ringed round with catastrophes.

Foucarmont had twice fought duels, and he was in consequence most politely treated, and admitted into every circle.

Existence is so bitter for every one of us! Ought we not to forgive others much, my friend, if we wish to merit forgiveness ourselves?