Men sometimes think they hate flattery, but they hate only the manner of flattering.
Sometimes we think we dislike flattery, but it is only the way it is done that we dislike.
People who wish to numb our caution in dealing with them by means of flattery are employing a dangerous expedient, like a sleeping draught, which, if it does not put us to sleep, keeps us all the more awake.
I am surrounded by flatterers and fools. It can drive a man to madness,.. . Half of them don’t dare tell me the truth, and the other half can’t find it.
Complimenting someone in an exaggerated way is known as flattery, and flattery will generally get you anything you want.
It is undoubtedly true that some people mistake sycophancy for good nature, but it is equally true that many more mistake impertinence for sincerity.
Just praise is only a debt, but flattery is a present.
Flattery was formerly a vice; it has now become the fashion.
I am surrounded by flatterers and fools.
