When a man once enters on a course of deception, he is compelled to add lie to lie.
 Honoré de Balzac, Father Goriot (1835). copy citation

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Author Honoré de Balzac
Source Father Goriot
Topic self-deception lie
Date 1835
Language English
Reference
Note Translated by Ellen Marriage
Weblink http://www.gutenberg.org/files/1237/1237-h/1237-h.htm

Context

“This swift comparison between his present condition and the aims he had in view helped to benumb his faculties. “Why not?” the Vicomtesse was saying, as she smiled at the Portuguese. “Why cannot you come to the Italiens?” “Affairs! I am to dine with the English Ambassador.” “Throw him over.” When a man once enters on a course of deception, he is compelled to add lie to lie. M. d’Ajuda therefore said, smiling, “Do you lay your commands on me?” “Yes, certainly.” “That was what I wanted to have you say to me,” he answered, dissembling his feelings in a glance which would have reassured any other woman.” source