You have only to see what became of my father's will immediately after his death, and the wills of so many other kings. I know it well; but nevertheless, they have wished it; they gave me no rest nor repose, no calm until it was done.
Render to God what you owe him; recognize the obligations you are under to him.
I could sooner reconcile all Europe than two women.
I have made my will; I have been tormented to do it. I have bought repose; I know the powerlessness and inutility of it.
We can do all we wish while we live; afterward, we are less than the meanest.
My child, you are going to be a great king; do not imitate me in the taste I have had for building, or in that I have had for war; try, on the contrary, to be at peace with your neighbors.
