A great improvisation: Franklin, France, and the birth of America

The first mistake in public business is the going into it, 1776

Half the truth is often a great lie, 1776-1777

Three can keep a secret, if two of them are dead, 1777

The cat in gloves catches no mice, 1777-1778

There is no such thing as a little enemy, 1778

Admiration is the daughter of ignorance, 1778

Success has ruined many a man, 1779

Everyone has wisdom enough to manage the affairs of his neighbors, 1780

The sting of a reproach is the truth of it, 1780-1781

Those who in quarrels interpose may get bloody nose, 1782

The absent are never without fault, 1783

Creditors have better memories than debtors, 1784-1785.